Heckman, Katie (Katydid)

My love for the outdoors began at Shaver’s Creek where I learned to stay curious and seek to discover each and every day.

Years at Shaver’s Creek: 2009–2015

Positions Held: Intern, Leader in Training, Outdoor School, Summer Camp

Current Company/Organization: Highmark

I was lucky enough to grow up at Shaver’s Creek, from camper to LIT to counselor, as a summer intern. I always felt at home there. The community is so special, filled with an amazing group of people who want to connect with others and connect with nature. There is so much passion and childlike wonder in everyone you meet at Shaver’s Creek, which drove me to want to learn more, grow more, and be a better counselor. I absolutely loved having the opportunity to teach campers about the outdoors, seeing their joy and excitement every day. This taught me to stay curious in everything I do, approaching each day with a new sense of wonder.

While I don’t work in the outdoor industry, Shaver’s Creek taught me a lot about teaching and working with people and sparked my passion for the outdoors at a very young age. The bonds created and the memories built at Shaver’s Creek will always remain so special to me and I am forever grateful.