We joined the world in celebrating International Women’s Day (IWD) earlier this year by shining a spotlight on women in the outdoors and those who make it a better place for all. We shared the stories and words of advice and encouragement of leaders, role models, mentors, mothers, sisters, and daughters to uplift and empower all the women who share the outdoors. We have met and gotten to know many more incredible women since March 2022, and we simply couldn’t wait until IWD 2023 to introduce you to more Women in the Outdoors! One of the women we are proud to call our friend at Savage is Jennifer Broome. This is her story!

Jennifer Broome

What was my path to being part of the outdoor industry? I have been an Outdoorswomen my entire life. My parents, especially my father, embraced my natural inclinations to enjoy the outdoors, encouraging me to be among the youngest crew members found boating, sailing, hunting, and fishing along the Jersey Shore and Eastern Shores of Maryland.

My education echoed these early interests, leading to my relocation to New England where I attended the University of Rhode Island, earning a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Biology and Management. During my early career as a seasonal biologist for both state and federal agencies, my canine companions became my career when I decided to focus on working with field dogs. It was the right decision — today, I am the owner of the largest dog training, boarding, and wellness facility in the Northeast specializing in raising and training field dogs for hunting as well as field competitions.

What advice would you give to other women in the outdoors? Live your life with passion and pursue the things that you love to do. Be an explorer and a student. Learn to be proficient in your outdoor skills —  fishing, hunting, shooting, camping, kayaking, or hiking. Confidence and mutual respect come from mastering skills. The most beautiful experience? To be independent and confident in the field.

What can the industry do to support women in the outdoors? When women who enjoy the outdoors can find clothing that is durable, functional, and designed for our shapes, we will literally feel like we fit in. Most of the big-name brands have a selection of women’s field boots, clothing, and gear, however, the durability is a far cry from the men’s from the SAME brands. If we are going to keep up, we need gear that fits well, is functional and is durable.

How were you supported by others as you were getting started in the outdoor industry? I got my early start with Ducks Unlimited (DU) where my Dad served as the Barnegat Bay Chapter Chairman for many years. I grew up hunting and my connections with DU helped introduce me to hunters all over. Later, as a Professional Dog Trainer, I performed demonstrations for DU events; my artwork has been published by DU, and I am also a sponsor/supporter.

In addition, I was also on the Cabelas Pro Staff Team as a Professional Dog Trainer for 12 years where I traveled the country doing dog demos, guiding hunts, teaching clinics as well as attending the yearly NRA Conferences around the country teaching dog clinics to thousands of people.

Like many featured here, I have been fortunate to have great mentors in my life. From professional dog trainers to shooters, fly fishermen, equestrians, artists, and great outdoorsmen and women.  

Life in the outdoors is not just a hobby or something that I take lightly….. it IS my life. When you truly embrace the things that you love and you work hard to become proficient at those skills, there are so many amazing people out there that you can connect with.

My closing advice to other young women considering a future in the outdoors? Don’t be afraid to learn. Open your heart —  be a student, and follow your dreams.

There is an art to living afield — do so with passion.

Follow Jennifer's professional dog training, boarding and care facility QK Dogs @qkdogs and check out https://qkdogs.com/. 

Read more Women in the Outdoors stories!