From Campfires to Pool Decks: How aquatics & summer camp jobs shape future leaders
- Jaykob Thompson
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Each summer, thousands of Ontarian students are employed by the parks and recreation sector. While many do not remain in the sector after graduation, they gain valuable leadership and professional development skills through these roles.
Roles in lifeguarding and aquatics have taught me that my duties go beyond monitoring the swimming area or leading camp programming. Working in aquatics and camps involves creating safe spaces where people can build their self-confidence while working through challenges, fears, and triumphs. The skills required to be an effective leader in aquatic and camp environments build the leadership skills of young staff far beyond pools or campgrounds.
Telling My Story
My experience in aquatics and camps started long before I was an employee. It started when I was a youth participating in these programs and looking up to the individuals who were my lifeguards, swim instructors, and camp leaders!
From there I worked hard to become a Camp Leader. In 2021, I achieved that goal at GO Adventure CO., which was the camp I attended as a youth. I was then promoted to Camp Supervisor in 2023. In 2021, I also I began working as a Lifeguard with the Township of Southgate, and began lifeguarding in the Town of Orangeville the following year. From there, I ventured into Aquatic Leadership roles, becoming a Head Lifeguard/Instructor, furthering my knowledge of Aquatic Instructor Certifications.
Following these experiences, I took a High School Co-op position with the Town of Orangeville as a Recreation Assistant, giving me the opportunity to explore the recreation sector as a viable career path. This role, combined with my experience at GO Adventure Co., influenced me pursue a Bachelor of Recreation and Leisure Studies at Brock University, where I currently work as an Aquatic Student Supervisor and Residence Don.
Why Camps & Aquatics Creates Natural Leaders
For many students, jobs in aquatics and camps are their first introduction to high-risk responsibility in the workplace. These roles are typically filled by students who are just starting their journey in the workforce. However, unlike other entry-level roles, these environments place young staff in positions where they directly impact the safety, well-being, and experiences of others.
Leadership is practiced not so much in words as in attitude and in actions.” - Harold S. Geneen
Responsibility comes fast
From their first shift, aquatic and camp staff must be prepared to handle all aspects of participant safety, well-being, and experience. Lifeguards need to maintain their watch and respond to emergencies within seconds. Camp counsellors must address group needs, emotional requirements, and environmental changes throughout the day. Both roles demand a high-degree of risk assessment, effective and quick decision making, and the ability to maintain composure during high-stress situations. Through this experience, staff learn accountability, confidence, and dependability.
Teaching Builds Confidence
Aquatics instructors and camp staff spend their work hours creating a fun, safe, and memorable experiences that help participants build important life skills. Staff members develop patience and adaptability in their instructing styles. For instance, staff are often required to explain and demonstrates concepts in multiple ways, catering to unique learning needs. Roles in aquatics and camps demonstrates that successful leadership requires strong participant-leader relationships and clear communication.
Team Environments Develop Professional Skills
Effective teamwork between staff members is a core foundation of camps and aquatic facilities. When staff members collaborate to develop programs and aid each other with challenges, they build a strong support network that further establishes the safety, security, and quality of camp and aquatic experiences. Working in camps and aquatics helps staff develop multiple professional skills, including delivering constructive feedback, conflict management, scheduling, navigating shared duties, and taking initiative. These are applicable and transferable to nearly every professional environment, and prime staff to step into future leadership roles.
What Camps and Aquatics Teaches Us About Leadership
My experience of working in aquatics and camps has taught me that true leadership operates through small actions. Whether supporting a nervous swimmer or cheering on a camper during a difficult portage, working in aquatics and camps teaches staff the meaning of consistent and reliable leadership that centres empathy, patience, and prioritizing the safety and enjoyment of participants.
Each summer thousands of students are employed by the parks and recreation sector in Ontario. While many may view these positions as merely a 'summer job,' the learning and professional growth opportunities in aquatics, camps, and other segments of the parks and recreation sector should not be underestimated. For recreation professionals, these entry-level position are often a starting point for leadership development, professional connections, and future employment.
About the author
Jaykob Thompson
PRO Ambassador, Brock University Student
Jaykob is a second year student in Outdoor Recreation at Brock University. Jaykob has already pursued many professional roles in parks and recreation in aquatics and camp settings. Jaykob prioritizes creating fun, engaging, and safe spaces for people of all ages. Outside of professional pursuits, you can find Jaykob spending time outdoors and reconnecting with nature.
