Kim Petau
Woodland Park,CO
Summary
Strategic and mission-driven outdoor education leader with 20+ years of progressive experience directing licensed and ACA-accredited overnight and day camps, troop camps, and family camp programs. Proven expertise in program design, staff leadership, risk management, accreditation compliance, and inclusive, youth-centered outdoor experiences. Recognized for building high-performing teams, maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality, and creating engaging programs centered around the Girl Scout Leadership Experience.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Executive Camp Director
Girl Scouts of Colorado
01.2022 - Current
- Provided executive-level leadership for licensed and ACA-accredited overnight camp and school year programs serving youth and families.
- Oversaw strategic planning, program development, and continuous improvement for outdoor and experiential education offerings, including a large-impact, comprehensive program shift to a new “high adventure” vision and execution of DU funds to support this vision at Sky High Ranch.
- Oversaw strategic planning and continuous property improvement for Lazy Acres and Hamp Hut including mitigation partnerships with various agencies.
- Directed recruitment, hiring, training, and supervision of seasonal and year-round staff; fostered a positive, mission-aligned staff culture.
- Developed and implemented comprehensive risk management plans, emergency procedures, and staff safety trainings.
- Ensured full compliance with state licensing regulations, ACA standards, and organizational policies.
- Managed multiple programs, property and Capital Expenditure budgets, purchasing, and resource allocation to ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainability.
- Identified potential grant opportunities with partners and compiled data in collaborative pursuit of external funding opportunities.
- Served on the Colorado Camp Network board to represent GSCO’s voice in various state legislative interests from licensing and health standards to employment and insurance law.
- Collaborated with community partners, families, and stakeholders to strengthen program reach and impact.
- Evaluated program outcomes using camper, staff, and member feedback to inform data-driven improvements.
Camp Director
Girl Scouts of Colorado
01.2014 - 01.2022
- Led daily operations of overnight and weekend programs, ensuring safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate experiences.
- Supervised and trained multidisciplinary teams including program specialists, counselors, and support staff.
- Implemented the Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE) by embedding girl-led, cooperative, and experiential learning principles into all programming.
- Coordinated ACA visits and licensing inspections, with successful outcomes.
- Managed program budgets, purchasing, and resource allocation to ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainability.
- Oversaw the management of program equipment and activity areas in accordance with safety and regulatory standards.
Day Camp & Outdoor Programs Director
Girl Scouts of Colorado
01.2006 - 01.2014
- Oversaw multiple licensed staff-led, nine-week Day Camp Programs and volunteer single-week programs throughout the state impacting 2000+ youth each summer.
- Developed a collaborative program pipeline transitioning campers from Day Camp to Overnight Camp in accordance with the GSUSA Outdoor Progression.
- Oversaw the recruitment, hiring, training, and supervision of seasonal staff and year-round staff; fostered a positive, mission-aligned staff culture.
- Recruited and supervised multiple seasonal staff camp directors and volunteer directors.
- Oversaw the development of consistent programming aligned with the Girl Scout Leadership Experience and outdoor education best practices across multiple camps.
- Managed program budgets, purchasing, and resource allocation to ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainability.
- Created and implemented staff-led new and innovative Troop Camp programs at MMR and Twisted Pine.
- Adapted and oversaw the GSUSA Program Aide program for Girl Scouts of Colorado emerging leaders and supported youth leadership development.
Education
Master of Science - Biomedical Science
Creighton University
Omaha, NE12-2007
Bachelor of Arts - Environmental Science
Pacific Lutheran University
Tacoma, WA05-2003
Skills
- ACA Accreditation & Licensing Compliance
- Emergency Response & Crisis Management
- Program Design & Evaluation GSLE/curriculum
- Staff Recruitment, Training & Supervision
- Risk Management & Safety Systems
- Budgeting & Resource Management
- Youth Development & Workforce Readiness
- Family & Community Engagement
- DEI & Inclusive Program Practices
- Outdoor & Experiential Education Leadership
Affiliations
- Colorado Camp Networks- Board Member since 2024
- ACA Visitor since 2007
Certification
- ACA Accreditation Volunteer Visitor and AAR Reviewer
- NOLS Wilderness First Responder certification
- FEMA Disaster Coordinator certification
- Red Cross Small Craft Safety Instructor
- Certified Horsemanship Association Instructor: Level 1
- American Archery Association Level 2 Instructor
Timeline
Executive Camp Director
Girl Scouts of Colorado
01.2022 - Current
Camp Director
Girl Scouts of Colorado
01.2014 - 01.2022
Day Camp & Outdoor Programs Director
Girl Scouts of Colorado
01.2006 - 01.2014
Master of Science - Biomedical Science
Creighton University
Bachelor of Arts - Environmental Science
Pacific Lutheran University
References
References available upon request