Outdoor Centre Staff

Paul Chiddle

Outdoor Centre Manager, Instructor, Guide
paul.chiddle@ucalgary.ca

Paul is the Manager of the Outdoor Centre and a highly experienced practitioner across all disciplines of outdoor education. He leads the Centre’s strategic development, business operations, and risk management, ensuring its continued growth and success. A fully certified IFMGA Mountain Guide and an active member of the ACMG, Paul has climbed and skied extensively in some of the most remote and iconic mountain ranges in the world. When he’s not at work, you’ll likely find him deep in the mountains, continuing to pursue his passion for adventure.

Cody Johnston

Equipment and Services Coordinator
outdoorgear@ucalgary.ca

Cody has over 25 years of mountain biking and teaching experience and coordinates the Outdoor Centre's equipment and services. He shares a passion and philosophy for riding, tuning and repairing technical gear. He says, “There is something captivating about bikes– the balance, the openness to one’s surroundings, and the simplicity of the machine itself. Whether on skis, a board, or a bike, tuning gear with your own hands only adds to the satisfaction and freedom you feel outdoors.” BA, BEd.

Brad Cooke

Program Coordinator, Instructor
ocprograms@ucalgary.ca

ROCK CLIMBING, ICE CLIMBING, MOUNTAINEERING, AVALANCHE SAFETY, BACKCOUNTRY SKIING, SKI MOUNTAINEERING, CREVASSE RESCUE

Brad joined the Outdoor Center in 2019, bringing with him a decade of experience guiding guests in the mountain ranges of Alberta and British Columbia. He is an enthusiastic rock, ice, and alpine climber, backcountry skier, runner, and cyclist and is passionate about sharing his love of safely enjoying the great outdoors. As the manager of a team of ACMG-certified guides and avalanche skills instructors, Brad works to spread the excitement and expertise of his crew to others. Climbing Wall Association (Provider), CAA Level 2 Avalanche Operations, CSIA Level 2 Ski Instructor

Chris Chesham

Program Coordinator , Instructor
ocprograms@ucalgary.ca

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING, CANOEING, KAYAKING, STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING

Growing up in Canmore, Chris developed a deep love for the mountains and outdoor adventure. He competed at a high level in Biathlon, winning national championships, before transitioning into outdoor instruction. While earning an Outdoor Adventure Diploma from Algonquin College, he expanded his skills in paddling, canoeing, kayaking, and rafting. His expertise led him to adventure course management, professional course building, and high-level facility training. Now, as the Cross-Country Ski and Paddling Coordinator at the Outdoor Centre, Chris is excited to grow the programs and build on their success. Always up for a coffee and a chat, he’s happy to swap stories of hiking the Alps, biking Cuban coastlines, or crafting the perfect cocktail—when he’s not at home relaxing with his cat, Patrick.

Sam Mazerolle

Climbing and Bouldering Facilities Supervisor, Instructor
ocprograms@ucalgary.ca

INDOOR CLIMBING AND BOULDERING

Sam joined the Outdoor Centre team in 2023, bringing extensive knowledge and experience in commercial climbing. With a strong background in instructing, she has developed a keen understanding of climbing techniques and strategies. Her expertise extends to route-setting, where she designs challenging and engaging routes for climbers of all skill levels. Sam is passionate about fostering the climbing community at the University of Calgary, starting with her work in the climbing office.
When Sam isn't at the Outdoor Centre, you’ll find her exploring the mountains, either hiking or climbing. She also loves solving New York Times games, particularly the mini crossword puzzles!

Lauren Chown

Youth Program Coordinator, Instructor
outkids@ucalgary.ca

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Lauren has been working at the Outdoor Centre since 2018. She began as an Outdoor Youth Leader, leading summer camps, overnight trips, and cross-country skiing programs, as well as youth paddling and mountain biking programs. She later advanced to Assistant Youth Program Coordinator and is now the Youth Program Coordinator. Lauren is dedicated to encouraging youth to get outside and try new activities! Paddle Canada Moving Water Canoe Instructor, Paddle Canada Advanced Flatwater Stand Up Paddleboard Instructor, and OCC Field Leader (Hiking).

Rachel Oggy

Program Coordinator, Instructor, Guide
ocprograms@ucalgary.ca

HIKING, SNOWSHOEING, LEADERSHIP, NAVIGATION, BEAR SAFETY, PARAGLIDING, HANG GLIDING, WILDERNESS FIRST AID

Rachel has been with the Outdoor Centre since 2011. She coordinates the hiking, backpacking, snowshoeing, navigation, leadership, windsport, wilderness first aid, and custom programs, and guides/instructs some courses. Rachel brings extensive knowledge of the mountains, trails, and routes of the Canadian Rockies, which allows the Outdoor Centre to offer a wide variety of spectacular hiking trips and locations. Rachel leads a team of highly qualified guides who have years of experience and a variety of expertise to share with trip participants.

Brooke Van Oosten

Equipment and Services Administrator

Brooke joined the Outdoor Centre in 2021 starting as a rental shop staff while studying at the University of Calgary and competing on the Dinos field hockey team. Brooke began her position as the equipment and services administrator in 2025. In this position, she hopes make the outdoors more accessible and encourage anyone to try something new!
Brooke has a passion for the outdoors, always attempting and learning a variety of activities. She enjoys climbing, hiking, road and trail running, biking, and the occasional water sport of canoeing or kayaking. When not at the Outdoor Centre, she loves reading, cooking, travelling, and valued time with family and friends.