Laura Moore @ GWBJ. | June 16, 2025
By Laura Moore
Not all educational programs are alike. The core philosophies and values vary from organization to organization. But the Wilmington-based National Center for Outdoor & Adventure Education is in a class by itself.
Tucked away within a haven of live oak trees off River Road near Snow’s Cut, NCOAE offers educational opportunities built upon a framework of core values, community and culture.
Zac and Celine Adair founded the organization to empower people through unique educational experiences. Since 2009, they have worked to provide opportunities that go beyond the traditional classroom to foster personal growth and professional development through adventure-based educational experiences.
NCOAE offers four separate programs: the NCOAE High School Semester for 10th- and 11th-graders, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training, the Wilderness Medicine First Aid/First Responder programs and summer outdoor leadership expeditions for teenagers.
The outdoor adventure and education provider partners with schools, kindergarten through12th grade, as well as colleges and universities, to provide outdoor leadership programs, both locally and across the country.
The Adairs said NCOAE is committed to …