Her Wilderness aims to spread our passion and mission across the country. This is not possible without the help of our incredible volunteer trip coordinators that help plan and execute trips in their home state and beyond.
AMANDA | WASHINGTON
I WAS BORN AND RAISED IN WASHINGTON STATE. I GREW UP BIG GAME HUNTING AND FISHING WITH MY FATHER. DUE TO BEING A COLLEGE ATHLETE, I HAD LIMITED TIME FOR ADDITIONAL HOBBIES. ONCE MY COLLEGIATE CAREER ENDED, I REALLY DOVE DEEP INTO MY OUTDOOR HOBBIES (HUNTING, FISHING). I HAVE COMPLETED A BACHELORS IN SOCIAL WORK AS WELL AS A MASTERS IN SOCIAL WORK. I MARRIED MY HUSBAND, CALEB IN JUNE 2023 ON THE KNIK GLACIER IN PALMER ALASKA. WE HAVE 1 FUR BABY, A CANE CORSO/LAB MIX, NASH.
ACCOMPLISHMENT THAT YOU ARE PROUD OF:
COMPLETING MY MASTERS DEGREE IN SOCIAL WORK
PLAYING SOFTBALL IN COLLEGE (PITCHER)
BEING AN ADVOCATE FOR WOMEN IN THE OUTDOORS
WHAT IS YOUR FULL TIME/PART TIME JOB: LABOR & DELIVERY/POST-PARTUM SOCIAL WORKER
FAVORITE FOOD: SHRIMP ALFREDO & CHICKEN SANDWICHES
BIGGEST FEAR: NOT LIVING MY LIFE TO THE FULLEST AND SNAKES
WORDS TO LIVE BY OR FAVORITE QUOTE:
“BE COMFORTABLE BEING UNCOMFORTABLE”
DREAM BUCKET LIST TRIP OR VACATION: ALASKA KING EIDER HUNT OR TEXAS HELICOPTER HOG HUNT
IF YOU COULD HAVE A CONVERSATION WITH A GIRL WHO IS HESITANT TO REGISTER FOR TRIP, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY? BE COMFORTABLE BEING UNCOMFORTABLE… THE FIRST STEP TO BUILDING CONFIDENCE IS TRYING SOMETHING NEW. OUR TRIPS ARE DESIGNED TO LEARN NEW THINGS AND MEET NEW FRIENDS. OUR GOAL IS TO CREATE A POSITIVE ENVIRONMENT, FREE OF JUDGMENT. YOU WILL BE GUIDED ALONG THE WAY BY YOUR COORDINATOR SO YOU ARE FEELING CONFIDENT AND PREPARED FOR YOUR TRIP. AGAIN, FEEL COMFORTABLE BEING UNCOMFORTABLE, YOU WILL EXPERIENCE A LOT OF “FIRSTS” AND BUILD LIFELONG RELATIONSHIPS.
I am an avid outdoors woman with an adventurous spirit, I’m always seeking out new experiences and challenges. My love for hunting, fishing and the outdoors speaks to my connection with nature and my appreciation for the outdoors, where I find solace and fulfillment. Overall, my life is characterized by fun-filled adventures with my wife DaLee and our golden retrievers Cedar and Oak. We love camping together and share a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures that make each day special.
SOMETHING THAT YOU ARE PROUD OF: Running the Fargo Marathon, building a wood fired sauna, getting my masters degree in Kinesiology, introducing women to the great outdoors.
WHAT IS YOUR FULL TIME/PART TIME JOB: Full time high school Physical Education teacher for the past 26 years and Sales and Brand Ambassador for Bemidji Brewing
FAVORITE FOOD: Jerky and beer of any kind.
BIGGEST FEAR: Losing my dogs, I have 2 beautiful golden retrievers! Cedar and Oak
WORDS TO LIVE BY OR FAVORITE QUOTE: Seek to understand.
DREAM BUCKET LIST TRIP OR VACATION: Elk hunting in the mountains.
MY ADVICE: Remember, trying something new can be intimidating, but it's also an opportunity for personal growth, learning, and self-discovery. Embrace the challenge, step out of your comfort zone, and you may be pleasantly surprised by what you're capable of achieving.
BRIANNA | IOWA STATE COORDINATOR
I graduated from University of Dubuque with my B.S. in 2020. Started my masters through both Montana State and University of Northern Iowa right away and I am graduating with my second masters this May. In my free time, I enjoy being outdoors whether that is fishing for bluegill, bass or a good crappie, or hunting with my boyfriend, Brockton, whether that is for whitetail, geese or ducks. If it’s not outdoors, you can often find me tending to my house plants, baking or working out!
ACCOMPLISHMENT THAT YOU ARE PROUD OF: Completing two masters degrees in four years while also pursuing my hobbies and becoming a Her Wilderness coordinator. Becoming a coordinator has brought me so many new friends and experiences!
WHAT IS YOUR FULL TIME/PART TIME JOB: High School Science Teacher
FAVORITE FOOD: Nachos!
BIGGEST FEAR: Settling/Not living life to the fullest!
WORDS TO LIVE BY OR FAVORITE QUOTE: “To Question Well is to Teach Well”
DREAM BUCKET LIST TRIP OR VACATION: I really want to go on an elk hunt in Montana or out west somewhere! My life goal is to hunt or fish in all 50 states.
MY ADVICE: Get out there! I was also hesitant at first but after diving right into my first trip, there was no looking back! Happy to say I met some of my closest friends on these trips.
COURTNEY | SOUTH CAROLINA STATE COORDINATOR
As an avid outdoorswoman I am constantly seeking new adventures and challenges in nature. I feel most alive when I am immersed in the outdoors. My passion is big game hunting, but you can often find me on the water fishing or shooting sporting clays. I have one dog, Mason, who is a staffordshire terrier + boxer. Mason’s favorite pastime is snuggling on the couch while I plan more Her Wilderness trips.
ACCOMPLISHMENT THAT YOU ARE PROUD OF: Being brave enough to start my own businesses.
WHAT IS YOUR FULL TIME/PART TIME JOB: Logistics Coordinator + Owner at Ears by Courtney, making custom earplugs and website design with Nock Design Co.
FAVORITE FOOD: Mac & Cheese - the cheesier the better.
BIGGEST FEAR: Becoming complacent.
WORDS TO LIVE BY OR FAVORITE QUOTE: “Do it scared.”
DREAM BUCKET LIST TRIP OR VACATION: Moose + bear hunting in Alaska.
MY ADVICE: I was terrified on my first Her Wilderness trip. I kept telling myself “You can still turn around and go home! There’s still time!”. I am beyond thankful that I was brave enough to go on my first trip, because Her Wilderness has changed my life in so many ways. If I could do it all over again, the only thing I would change would be finding Her Wilderness sooner!
CRYSTAL MCCAULEY | TEXAS
Born and raised in South Florida near the Everglades, I grew up on the water fishing with my dad. It started my love for being outdoors and appreciating God's creations. I now live in Texas with my English Bulldog named Cowboy, who sometimes joins us on Her Wilderness trips (he loves the ladies!) My passion for hunting and fishing is one that I don’t think will ever leave me, it’s a part of who I am!
ACCOMPLISHMENT THAT YOU ARE PROUD OF: Graduating from the University of Florida and then moving thousands of miles away from home to start a new career.
WHAT IS YOUR FULL TIME/PART TIME JOB: Project Manager for General Contractor Construction Company
FAVORITE FOOD: Mexican Food (Chips/Queso and Enchiladas)
BIGGEST FEAR: Wildlife Attack
WORDS TO LIVE BY OR FAVORITE QUOTE: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
DREAM BUCKET LIST TRIP OR VACATION: Visit Alaska to fish for Salmon and Halibut and to hunt for any Alaska-native big game.
IF YOU COULD HAVE A CONVERSATION WITH A GIRL WHO IS HESITANT TO REGISTER FOR TRIP, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY? I would say it’s okay to feel hesitant, but don’t let your feelings/emotions dictate how you live your life! Everyone is welcome on our trips, you will leave with friends and the best memories. Take the jump and see what comes of it. You won’t regret it!
DORIAN | OKLAHOMA STATE COORDINATOR
I grew up hunting and fishing on her family farm in the lowcountry of South Carolina. My love for the outdoors began with whitetail deer hunting and bass fishing. Since then she has found a passion in waterfowl hunting, any kind of fishing, shed hunting and trapping. I moved to Oklahoma in 2021 with my three labradors Miller, Maple and Chevy, to pursue my dream job as an embryologist.
ACCOMPLISHMENT THAT YOU ARE PROUD OF: Master of Biomedical Sciences specializing in assisted reproductive technologies from Colorado State University and moving across the country to pursue a career as an embryologist
WHAT IS YOUR FULL TIME/PART TIME JOB: Large Animal Embryologist
FAVORITE FOOD: Stea
BIGGEST FEAR: Ticks
WORDS TO LIVE BY OR FAVORITE QUOTE: Go outside of your comfort zone
DREAM BUCKET LIST TRIP OR VACATION: Combo hunting, fishing trip to Alaska
MY ADVICE: Take the leap! Going on a Her Wilderness trip with a group of strangers is one of the best decisions I’ve made. I have made life long friends and memories from Her Wilderness trips. Her Wilderness has opened so many doors in my life and has greatly impacted me for the better.
EMILY | IOWA STATE COORDINATOR
Small-town born and raised, the little things in life mean the most to me! I am currently working my way through business college. If I'm not at school or work you can find me wading through the creeks of rural Indiana with my dog Milo, gardening or spending time with my family and fiancé. I wasn’t raised with an outdoor influence but after becoming an adult I started spending my evenings hiking and fishing, which later evolved into hunting and all kinds of fun stuff! Spending time outdoors is one of my biggest joys in life!
ACCOMPLISHMENT THAT YOU ARE PROUD OF: I am very proud of the lives I've effected in a positive way and the friends I’ve made along the way! When I was younger I was always scared that I’d never fit in but Her wilderness really helped break me out of my shell, build amazing friendships with other women like myself and bloomed my passion for the outdoors!
WHAT IS YOUR FULL TIME/PART TIME JOB: Day to day I work for Bunge Grain! But on the side, sometimes I help with my fiance's drywall business, my family’s greenhouses and guiding horseback trail rides.
FAVORITE FOOD: Anything Sweet
BIGGEST FEAR: My biggest fear is getting kidnapped
WORDS TO LIVE BY OR FAVORITE QUOTE: It’s not where you go in life, it’s who goes with you ❤️
DREAM BUCKET LIST TRIP OR VACATION: Shark Cage Dive at the Great Barrier Reef or Volcano hiking!
MY ADVICE: Life is so short. Even if you think you can’t go on a trip because of financial reasons, fear of not fitting in, time or fear of being away. Just do it. Figure out a way! The time we spend making memories are the things that will never leave us. No one ever regrets taking a chance on something unknown. The regret comes from not taking those chances!
KAYLA | VIRGINIA STATE COORDINATOR
My name is Kayla and I live in the Northern Neck of Virginia which is a small farming and watermen community. I live on a working farm on the Potomac River and I am obsessed with the sunsets here! Apart from hunting and fishing, I love anything outdoors. You can find me in my garage gym working out, going for a run on the farm, or enjoying my extra time somewhere on the water. I also love traveling and exploring new places.
ACCOMPLISHMENT I’M PROUD OF: starting my own mobile bar business in 2022, finishing my master’s degree in healthcare administration, and progressing as a woman in the civil engineering/construction workforce.
MY FULL TIME JOB: I work as a bridge construction inspector building and inspecting new and older bridges.
FAVORITE FOOD: probably cheese-eggs or raw sushi!
WORDS TO LIVE BY: “Being interested but inconsistent doesn’t work.” – Unknown
MY BIGGEST FEAR: snakes - Any kind!
BUCKET LIST TRIP: Explore the British Virgin Islands and rent a Catamaran for the week to live on!
MY ADVICE: The best thing I ever did was go on my first women’s hunting trip because I have created so many lasting relationships and I can say without a doubt that these girls I have met have become my closest friends. Some of the girls on these trips have helped make me a more well-rounded person just by listening to their experiences and their perspectives on the outdoors and just life in general. I have learned so much about myself through meeting other women that are like me, and even more-so from the ones that I do not have much in common with. I have become more confident in myself and in doing things that scare me and it has transformed me into someone I have always strived to be. I know this is something that can do the same for you if you are willing to step out of your comfort zone!
KIM | IOWA STATE COORDINATOR
I’m married and a mom of 2 boys. We live in the country in Iowa where we love to fish, hike, and hunt. I grew up hunting in central Iowa with my dad and now hunt on my own, with a couple girlfriends, and with my boys. If I had to pick a favorite animal to hunt in Iowa it would be turkeys.
ACCOMPLISHMENT THAT YOU ARE PROUD: I’m proud of our little family and the life we’ve built in the country in small town Iowa. Wouldn’t choose to live or be anywhere else.
WHAT IS YOUR FULL TIME/PART TIME JOB: I’ve been a licensed massage therapist for 15 years
FAVORITE FOOD: coffee
BIGGEST FEAR: living through the apocalypse
WORDS TO LIVE BY OR FAVORITE QUOTE: Go afield with a good attitude, with respect for the wildlife you hunt and for the forest and fields in which you walk. Immerse yourself in the outdoor experience. It will cleanse your soul and make you a better person. -Fred Bear
DREAM BUCKET LIST TRIP OR VACATION: Archery elk hunting in the mountains
MY ADVICE: Just go for it! I remember being nervous my first trip but I was so glad I went. I meet new friends every time I go on a trip. Just imagine being with a group of girls that want to talk about guns and hunting!! Unless you are lucky, many of us don’t have a group of friends that “get us” around home. So come join us and have a great time!
KENDALL | WISCONSIN STATE COORDINATOR
In the midst of COVID, I graduated from UW-Platteville with my BSME. Since then, I moved around and changed jobs a few times. Now that I'm done moving, my boyfriend and I bought a house in the small town of Fremont, WI. We raise ducks, chickens and hounds in our yard, and keep our cattle at my parents’ down the road. I’m currently going back to school for my MBA at UW-Oshkosh. In my free time I enjoy hunting with hounds, bow hunting, ice fishing, utving & snowmobiling!
ACCOMPLISHMENT THAT YOU ARE PROUD: During undergrad, I spent a year as Fair Royalty representing our county fair and being an advocate for agriculture in our local communities.
WHAT IS YOUR FULL TIME/PART TIME JOB: Operations Engineer at Gulfstream Aerospace
FAVORITE FOOD: potatoes
BIGGEST FEAR: snakes
WORDS TO LIVE BY OR FAVORITE QUOTE: every day is a good day (my grandpa’s daily saying)
DREAM BUCKET LIST TRIP OR VACATION: hunting & fishing combo trip to Alaska
MY ADVICE: Take the trip, even if you don’t know anyone! I met one of my best friends on my first Her Wilderness trip and there was no looking back. I can’t imagine my life without her or Her Wilderness!
KYNDEL | MISSOURI STATE COORDINATOR
My name is Kyndel and I was born and raised in Mid MO! My dad introduced me to deer hunting at age 11 and my passion grew from there! I am proud to say I am now a full blown whitetail addict. I am a mom of 2 amazing girls, a full time nurse, and a full time student! I am pursuing my degree in marketing with an end goal of having a career in the outdoor industry.
ACCOMPLISHMENT THAT YOU ARE PROUD OF: I am proud of myself for expanding my horizons and becoming independent in the outdoors. I used to be scared of not knowing everything and looking silly. But now I love to learn new things and give it my all until I am confident in myself.
WHAT IS YOUR FULL TIME/PART TIME JOB: I have been a full time nurse for 4.5 years!
FAVORITE FOOD: BBQ ribs
BIGGEST FEAR: The dark
WORDS TO LIVE BY OR FAVORITE QUOTE: “It’s never luck. It’s always God”
DREAM BUCKET LIST TRIP OR VACATION: MY dream bucket list item is to go hunting for black bears in Canada.
MY ADVICE: If it sparks your interest… DO IT! Do not let any self doubt keep you from signing up for a trip. You could be one trip away from having a completely different view on life. There is a way around almost any hurdle keeping you from coming on a trip. From newbies to experienced members… We welcome EVERYONE!
LAUREN | NORTH CAROLINA STATE COORDINATOR
I enjoy hunting and fishing with my fiancé, Garrett, volunteering for my local Ducks Unlimited chapter, Cross-fit, gardening and cooking. I also love relaxing on the beach during the summertime.
ACCOMPLISHMENT THAT YOU ARE PROUD OF: Completing my Masters degree and becoming a Her Wilderness coordinator. It has allowed me to get out of my comfort zone!
WHAT IS YOUR FULL TIME/PART TIME JOB: Data analyst for an IT company
FAVORITE FOOD: All of it
BIGGEST FEAR: Running out of coffee on a Monday morning
WORDS TO LIVE BY OR FAVORITE QUOTE: “The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing” - Walt Disney
DREAM BUCKET LIST TRIP OR VACATION: Trip around Asia with a focus on Japan, Indonesia and Thailand.
IF YOU COULD HAVE A CONVERSATION WITH A GIRL WHO IS HESITANT TO REGISTER FOR TRIP, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY? Life is too short to be afraid to try new adventures! It only takes one trip and you’re hooked!
MORGAN | SOUTH DAKOTA STATE COORDINATOR
I am a nature-loving, adventure-seeking real estate agent based in Watertown, SD. When I'm not helping people find their dream homes, you can find me exploring the great outdoors, hunting waterfowl, traveling the world, loving up on my nieces and nephew and embracing every moment life has to offer. In 2025, I'll be tying the knot with my amazing partner Christopher, and we couldn't be more excited to start this new chapter together. Oh, and let's not forget about my beloved red lab, Rosco, who brings so much joy to my life! With a zest for living life to the fullest, I'm always up for new experiences and making unforgettable memories. So, if you're looking for a home or simply want to chat about life's adventures, I'm your gal!
ACCOMPLISHMENT THAT YOU ARE PROUD OF: Obtaining my real estate license at the age of 22!
WHAT IS YOUR FULL TIME/PART TIME JOB: Real Estate Agent
FAVORITE FOOD: Prime Rib
BIGGEST FEAR: Drowning
WORDS TO LIVE BY OR FAVORITE QUOTE: “Don't get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.” - Dolly Parton
DREAM BUCKET LIST TRIP OR VACATION: Kyrgyzstan Ibex Hunt or Red Stag in New Zealand
MY ADVICE: Don’t let your fear keep you from missing out on making unforgettable memories and meeting lifelong friends! I remember driving to my first Her Wilderness trip in Yankton, SD to hunt snow geese thinking to myself “are these girls going to be nice” “am I going to have fun” “I hope I meet some really cool female friends to hunt and fish with” “I am so nervous I don't even know these people”... I can 1000% say that making the decision to drive a couple hours to meet people I only knew from their social media and a few zoom calls changed my life! I now have lifelong friends that live all over the United States that not only love to hunt and fish, but cheer me on and are the most genuine souls too! If you are hesitant to join in I urge you to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Who knows, you may end up loving a new sport or activity and meeting some best friends while you are at it!
SAM SIMMA | WYOMING STATE COORDINATOR
Raised in the land of casseroles and deep fried cheese curds, Sam Simma left rural Wisconsin for the mountains of Wyoming in 2012. Her appetite for adventure is the only thing that rivals her passion for food. Amidst the chaos of life, nothing refuels her more than a weekend in the outdoors or a night sleeping beneath the stars. These days, she’s always hunting something, including shed antlers, the next mountain to climb, or the most technical backcountry snowmobile lines. On these adventures, you can be sure to see her adopted mutts Timber and Buck in tow.
WHAT IS YOUR FULL TIME/PART TIME JOB: Digital Marketing Director and Media Buyer
FAVORITE FOOD: Wine
BIGGEST FEAR: Heights
WORDS TO LIVE BY OR FAVORITE QUOTE: Don’t live your life saving dessert for last
DREAM BUCKET LIST TRIP OR VACATION: Galapagos, to scuba dive
MY ADIVCE: The women who sign up for Her Wilderness trips are a different breed–they’re warm, welcoming, upbeat, and drama-free. You can be confident that you will find another woman (or women) you connect with on a Her Wilderness trip!
TIA | COLORADO STATE COORDINATOR
I am originally from the Midwest, but ran away and fell in love with the mountains. I am a proud mama of a 9 year old explorer, Ada and we have a black lab, new yellow lab pup, and a Bearded Dragon. We enjoy everything the mountains have to offer from camping, fishing, hiking, hotsprings, backpacking, and sight seeing!
ACCOMPLISHMENT THAT YOU ARE PROUD OF: Making it. As a single mama, full time employed woman in construction, Her Wilderness Coordinator, and Directing Little Wilderness- I can truly say that my life feels more complete and fulfilled than I ever imagined it could possibly be! I found my meaning, and my tribe!
WHAT IS YOUR FULL TIME/PART TIME JOB: Full Time: General Manager/ Financial Manager of a roofing company.
FAVORITE FOOD: Anything Thai or Sushi
BIGGEST FEAR: Definitely heights and steep ledges
WORDS TO LIVE BY OR FAVORITE QUOTE: “ Why are you trying so hard to fit in- when you were born to stand out.”
DREAM BUCKET LIST TRIP OR VACATION: Alaska Salmon Run or New Zealand Hiking
MY ADVICE: You won’t know unless you try. I put myself on the backburner being a full time single mom with zero friends. This was my first ME trip/ experience and it truly and fully changed my life for the better. It can be so scary to put yourself out there with strangers and not know what to expect- but you could also leave with an experience that changes your life and gives you a best friend you never knew you would have.
TONI | MINNESOTA STATE COORDINATOR AND SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
I grew up in Minnesota raised by parents who LOVE to fish, which turned into my biggest hobby! Now I love teaching women everything there is to know about Ice and Open water fishing through Her Wilderness. In my free time I also love to spend time with my son, cook, travel, and trying new cuisines!
ACCOMPLISHMENT THAT YOU ARE PROUD OF: When I was young, I found myself faced with an unplanned pregnancy. I made the difficult decision to make an adoption plan for my son to give him a better life. Today I have an incredible relationship with him and his parents. I am so proud of the relationship I have built with him over the years and watching his love for the outdoors grow with him.
WHAT IS YOUR FULL TIME/PART TIME JOB: I work full time for a trucking company managing their purchases & inventories and I also work part time managing the social media accounts for Her Wilderness. With my extra time I enjoy tying feather and hair jigs and have recently started making earrings & jewelry to sell at local trade shows.
FAVORITE FOOD: Anything Asian Cuisine
BIGGEST FEAR: Drowning
DREAM BUCKET LIST TRIP OR VACATION: To take a seaplane into a remote part of Canada, and camp on an island. Fish for Lake Trout, Walleyes, and Pike. Cooking all of our meals over an open fire.
MY ADVICE: Too much time will pass you by if you wait around for someone else to do the things that YOU want to do.
WHITNEY | WISCONSIN STATE COORDINATOR
Growing up I always loved being outdoors and trying new things, I always loved fishing and I wanted to hunt but was never given the opportunity until I met my boyfriend, Jake. Jake introduced me into waterfowl, whitetail, coyote hunting, and ultimately was the one who introduced me to some of the women who were in town for a Her Wilderness trip. When I’m not hunting, fishing, or traveling, I live on Jake’s family farm where we raise a small quantity of beef cattle. We have 2 black labs named Brita and Oaklee, they are mother and daughter and love to waterfowl and upland hunt any chance we get! They also get to spend all summer on the pontoon with us when we hit the river and fish.
ACCOMPLISHMENT THAT YOU ARE PROUD OF: My knowledge on wildlife and what I have done so far as diversity in what I have hunted and caught!
WHAT IS YOUR FULL TIME/PART TIME JOB: Certified Medical Assistant in Orthopedic
FAVORITE FOOD: Ice cream
BIGGEST FEAR: Forgetting my memories.
WORDS TO LIVE BY OR FAVORITE QUOTE: You don’t want to look back and know that you could’ve done better.
DREAM BUCKET LIST TRIP OR VACATION: Bighorn sheep in the mountains
MY ADIVCE: Just do it, if there is a trip that you look at and go that is something I would love to do, do it because if you don’t, you may regret it and second, you may be missing out on meeting some life long best friends!