J.T. Schexnayder III

Outdoor Program Coordinator

As the Outdoor Program Coordinator at The National Center for Outdoor & Adventure Education (NCOAE) in Wilmington, North Carolina, J.T. Schexnayder brings a rare blend of classroom teaching and outdoor leadership experience to every trip he plans and participates in. With a foundation in science education and a passion for the outdoors, J.T. helps NCOAE create transformative experiences that inspire growth, confidence, and connection.

Before joining the team at NCOAE, J.T. served as Coordinator for Outdoor Recreation at the University of Georgia, where he spent four years organizing and leading student expeditions. Prior to that, he taught middle school science in South Carolina and Wyoming, bringing energy and curiosity into classrooms and nature alike. His summers were spent as Adventure Camp Director at Highlands Presbyterian Camp and Retreat Center (Allenspark, CO), where he spent time guiding youth through climbing, hiking, and outdoor leadership programs.

Originally from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, J.T. holds a bachelor’s degree in American History from Washington and Lee University and recently completed a master’s degree in Forestry and Natural Resources from the University of Georgia (Athens, GA). In 2025, he co-presented a workshop titled “The Impact of Smartphone Use on Goal Attainment in Outdoor Recreation” at the 47th Annual Southeast Recreation Research Conference — the longest-running outdoor recreation-focused conference in the U.S.

Known for his ability to connect with students of all ages, J.T. is passionate about introducing others to the power of learning through outdoor education. He has led trips focused on backpacking, caving, paddling, climbing, and skiing, and believes guided outdoor adventures can be life-changing when done with intention and care.

Outside of work, J.T. enjoys cooking, dancing, hiking, and reading. He lives with his wife, two cats, and a spirited cocker spaniel. If he could have any superpower, it would be snapping his fingers to clean the kitchen (a small wish from a dedicated cook who’d rather be outside than scrubbing dishes).

His biggest inspiration? His grandfather, who first introduced him to the wonders of the outdoors and set him on a lifelong path of exploration and stewardship.