Maritime Outdoor Leadership Program

Navigating Leadership

Beyond the Classroom

The Maritime Outdoor Leadership Program (MOLP) at Cal Maritime is a flagship initiative of the Edwards Leadership Development Program (ELDP). Inspired by the expeditionary models of Outward Bound and NOLS, MOLP prepares students to lead in dynamic, outdoor environments while building a lifelong ethic of teamwork, service, and personal growth.

Our Mission

The MOLP empowers Cal Maritime cadets and students to lead with character, competence, and compassion on the water, in the wilderness, and on campus. We offer immersive outdoor experiences that integrate leadership theory with real-world application. By combining expedition training, mentorship, and a “we are all crew, no passengers” approach, we foster a strong culture of inclusion, accountability, and community.

What We Offer

Leadership Training
Develop confidence, clarity, and critical thinking through progressive, hands-on leadership development in challenging outdoor settings.

Maritime-Wild Pre-Orientation Expedition
A multi-day wilderness trip designed to help incoming students build relationships, gain confidence, and feel connected to campus before stepping foot inside the classroom.

Adventure Trips & Expeditions
Student-led trips to iconic locations such as Yosemite National Park, Point Reyes National Seashore, and Mt. Diablo offer opportunities to apply navigation, decision-making, and group leadership in real time.

Outdoor Skills Workshops
Learn essential technical skills such as map and compass use, knot tying, backcountry cooking and even baking on a backcountry stove.

Wilderness First Aid
Build the confidence and skills to respond in an emergency while out in nature. Whether you're backpacking with friends, family, or leading a group, this training helps you stay calm and take action when it matters most - a skill you'll use for life.

Outdoor Hub
A centralized space for trip planning, leadership resources, gear access, and community gathering - fueling adventure and belonging year-round.

Why It Matters

At Cal Maritime, students grow as leaders through the Training Ship, International Experience, and many other hands-on opportunities. MOLP offers an additional way to build leadership through outdoor adventure, skill-building, and teamwork in incredible natural settings. You’ll take on real challenges, learn practical skills, and be part of something meaningful, all while exploring some of the most beautiful places in California and beyond.

Contact Us

OutdoorLeadership@csum.edu