Jessica Prescott

Field Instructor

essica Prescott is a Field Instructor at The National Center for Outdoor & Adventure Education (NCOAE) in Wilmington, North Carolina, where she combines her love for experiential education and the natural world to create meaningful outdoor experiences for our students. With a background in youth engagement and environmental learning, Jessica believes deeply in the power of nature to build confidence, connection, and healing.

Originally from Fort Mill, South Carolina, Jessica has held instructional and leadership roles across several outdoor programs and organizations. She served as a Lead Teacher for outdoor after-school care at Anne Springs Close Greenway (Charlotte, NC) and worked as an Outdoor Adventures Counselor with Kidder Creek Camps (Mount Hermon, CA). At Eagle Lake Camps (Colorado Springs, CO), she led backpacking trips for groups of 5–12 students, taught Leave No Trace principles, instructed rock climbing, and guided participants through high-risk adventure activities. Most recently, she worked as a Naturalist at Mount Hermon Outdoor Science School, leading weekly science-based lessons through immersive experiences in the California redwoods.

Jessica holds a degree in English with a minor in Education from Winthrop University ((Rock Hill, SC). She is certified in Wilderness First Aid and CPR and is a member of the Association for Experiential Education (AEE). Known for her ability to make people feel seen and heard, Jessica prioritizes creating safe, inclusive spaces in the outdoors. She’s passionate about helping students discover their strengths and develop a sense of environmental stewardship.

When she’s not on the trail, Jessica enjoys crocheting, yoga, reading, and spending time with her beloved niece. Her role model is her close friend Kinsey, whose empathy, service, and friendship have had a lasting impact on her life.

If she could have any superpower, Jessica would choose to speak every language fluently, which would be a reflection of her sincere desire to connect with and understand people from all walks of life.