Charles “Cal” Wacker

Cal is a veteran wilderness field instructor who joined the New Vision team in January of 2023. Inspired by positive feedback from colleagues in the industry, Cal made a last minute detour through Medford, WI during a cross country road trip, walked into the office, got a one-on-one meeting with the program director, and applied…

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Rebecca Wratkowski, BS

Rebecca’s deep bond with nature grew from family trips to YMCA camp, the Boundary Waters, and National Parks. This love, paired with her passion for helping students, led her to New Vision Wilderness. In her role, she empowers students, unlocking their potential and fostering growth, finding immense satisfaction. With dual majors in Biochemistry and Environmental…

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Ryan Treuthardt, B.S.

Ryan is a born and raised Wisconsinite with a myriad of interests who loves engaging the kids in their own hobbies and learning alongside them. Before joining New Vision, Ryan fueled a strong interest in game development. Whether it was hosting ‘Humans vs Zombies’ tag in the park or composing music with friends for indie…

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Eric Simon

Eric works at NVW because he is passionate about empathy and the outdoors. Nothing excites him more than transparent, authentic, and compassionate communication—and all of that while living in the forest! Eric finds purpose and meaning in supporting others in their healing journey and always sees the best in every person. He revels in those…

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Emily Hartke, B.S.

Emily is an Illinois native that has always had a love for the outdoors. She graduated from University with a degree in Recreation and Sport Management with a concentration in Outdoor Recreation and a minor in Leadership Studies. However, Emily’s love for the outside world started way before her college years. Emily fell in love…

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Lauren Lingenfelter, BA

Lauren grew up in Hudson, Wisconsin where she spent time exploring the many forests and rivers in the area with family and friends. Lauren initially attended College for Biology and quickly realized she was more passionate about understanding and working with people leading her to switch her focus to Psychology. Lauren graduated with a Bachelors of Arts degree…

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Winona Hapgood B.S.

Winona has always been passionate about helping others in the outdoors. She grew up camping and hiking with her family in her home state of Maine before leaving the state to pursue a bachelor of science degree in Exercise Physiology and a bachelor of arts in Hispanic Studies at University. During her time in college, Winona spent a semester abroad in Ecuador where she…

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