When Ollie Gauthier’s parents decided to purchase Hickory Hills Campground in 2022, his life took an unexpected turn. “I never knew that owning or managing a campground could be a career path,” Ollie reflects. “I had no clue this industry even existed.” Fresh out of his freshman year of college, Ollie decided to set aside his studies to help his family breathe new life into their new property. What began as a crash course in campground management has since grown into reshaping Ollie’s career and his outlook on the industry.
Now, just a few years later, his involvement with OHI, particularly the Young Professionals (YP) Group, has given him a unique platform to grow both personally and professionally.
As the social chair of the OHI Young Professionals (recently dethroned as one of youngest in the group (!)), Ollie plays a key role in promoting community among young leaders in the industry. For him, this position is more than just planning virtual happy hours or networking events; it’s about shaping the future. “My thought on the Young Professionals is that it’s not about who we’ve been, it’s about who we’re going to be,” Ollie explained. “It’s just a place for young professionals to connect with people that are their age and, in their demographic, about anything and everything, from a funny guest story to what happened at your park this past month.”
Under his and others’ leadership, the group has grown into a welcoming and supportive network. The monthly YP virtual happy hours, which Ollie helps organize, are a prime example of how the group provides value to its members. “It’s essentially like grabbing a drink with friends if we all lived in the same city,” Ollie said. “We brainstorm solutions to challenges and celebrate wins, whether it’s someone’s birthday or a big project they’ve completed. It’s a reminder that even in such a people-driven industry, acknowledging it can be isolating and that you’re not alone.”
Ollie also sees the Young Professionals as a way to give back to others just starting their journey in outdoor hospitality. “When my family got into this industry, we learned a lot by trial and error,” he said. “Being part of OHI and the YP Group lets me pay that forward. I want to provide a resource for someone who might be in the position I was, learning everything on the fly, and help them feel like they belong here.”
Beyond his role as YP social chair, Ollie has embraced the opportunities OHI provides to expand his knowledge and network. His recent attendance at the George O’Leary National School of Outdoor Hospitality was a particularly impactful experience, and he looks forward to attending year 2 in this upcoming session. “I have nothing but good things to say about National School,” Ollie shared. “The education is top-notch, but what really stands out is the relationships you build. I have a couple from Utah I now stay consider great friends. It’s a chance to learn from experts in the field while also connecting with peers who are just as passionate about this industry.”
His parents, who joined OHI even before purchasing Hickory Hills, and his siblings have been a constant source of support and inspiration for Ollie (his parents previously attended National School!). “They’ve been incredibly encouraging,” he said. “They understand how important these connections are, not just for our park but for my personal and professional growth. Whether it’s attending events like the Outdoor Hospitality Conference and Expo® (OHCE®) or working on YP initiatives, I know that my time spent in attendance is growth in action.”
Looking ahead, Ollie is excited about what’s next for the Young Professionals group. He and the YP executive committee are already planning networking events for OHCE®2025 in Louisville, KY and brainstorming new ways to create value for members. “It’s all about building something that lasts,” he said. “We want to create opportunities for young professionals to advance their careers, grow their confidence, and feel empowered to make an impact in the outdoor hospitality industry.”
For Ollie, his journey with OHI has been transformative, not just for his career but for his sense of belonging in an industry he never imagined himself a part of. “OHI’s support has been invaluable. It’s not just about learning what works at my park, it’s about gaining insight into how the entire industry operates and how I can make a bigger impact.”