SALT LAKE CITY — The Governor’s Office of Economic Development has named Kenneth Thomas Adams director for the Office of Outdoor Recreation.
“Outdoor recreation is a key industry in Utah providing direct economic benefits for our residents,” Gov. Gary Herbert said in a statement. “Tom’s experience and enthusiasm will help our state’s outdoor recreation industry achieve new levels of success.”
As director, Adams, who has a degree in commercial recreation management from the University of Utah, will oversee Utah’s outdoor recreation vision and programs. The vision was developed in conjunction with the Outdoor Industry Association, the Council on Balanced Resources, the economic development office and various outdoor industry leaders. It guides the state’s outdoor programs on improving Utah’s recreational opportunities and highlights the need to ensure a balanced, responsible approach to developing, enhancing and protecting public lands.
Adams, who is currently the sales director for Petzl, a manufacturer of high-end climbing and lighting equipment, has had a diverse career in the outdoor industry. He worked in sales roles at Liberty Mountain and Black Diamond Equipment. He has also worked as a ski instructor.