NYC - Meet Kevin McGowan— a Quarter Century of Boots

People are at the heart of NOLS, from students to instructors to office staff to board members, each and every person plays an integral role in the life of the organization.

This week we had the chance to pry a few minutes outta Kevin McGowan, Rocky Mountain Outfitting Manager at NOLS’ largest facility in Lander, Wyoming. Kevin started at NOLS as an Outdoor Educator student in the Tetons in 1978.

Kevin doesn’t talk it up much, but he was 4th in state wrestling a few years back- one of those big states too- Pennsylvania. Yup, NOLS’ own Kevin McGowan turned down a potentially lucrative pro-wrestling career to instead slam around outdoor gear in Lander.

NOLS: If you could get tickets for any professional sporting event, what event and which team would you like to see?
Kevin: Pro baseball. The Orioles vs. the Yankees at Camden Yards. Baltimore would walk all over those wimbly-wombly, no-goodly for nuthin’ Yankees.

NOLS: Any pets? If so, what are their names and do they possess any special talent?
Kevin: Nope, no pets. My sons Pat (14) and Joe (11) are enough of a handful, tho’ come to think of it, a pack of dachshunds might be easier on the furniture…

NOLS: How did you spend your last birthday?
Kevin: You mean yesterday?
NOLS: oh yeah! Happy birthday!
Kevin: Thanks – my family took me to lunch and gave me tons of balloons. Folks pitched in to get me a golf membership- not mini-golf either.

NOLS: Favorite month or season of the year?
Kevin: Definitely April or May, when the golf and baseball seasons start. It wouldn’t be spring without the crack of the bats and muttered curses on the links.

NOLS: What CD is in your car stereo right now?
Kevin: “Wonderland” by Hexbelt. They rock. They’re a little Amish band from York, PA. The drummer can really keep a beat. Sometimes.

NOLS: In what store would you choose to max out your credit card?
Kevin: Besides the NOLS on-line store, I’d have to say Target, for sure. Or maybe this little tattoo and piercing shop I know in Rock Springs…

NOLS: What is your favorite cartoon? (childhood or current)
Kevin: Spongebob – square pants. He wears shorts and so do I.

NOLS: Anywhere in the world, where would you be?
Kevin: Nepal. I was there in ’86 on a mountaineering expedition to Annapurna. I’d love to go back to the Himalayas.

NOLS: What has been your favorite work experience at NOLS?
Kevin: Interacting with the students and staff every day. That’s what its all about for me. It’s been 27 years and I’m still glad to work with the students.