We are Encompass Learning

We are passionate educators and adventurers, and our mission is to provide customized experiential and adventure-based programming.

We craft learning environments that embody an integrated approach rooted in the experiential learning process.

We strive to guide your group towards an increased understanding of social and emotional intelligence in order to enhance communication, leadership, and personal and professional growth.

We utilize experiential learning and outdoor experiences to provide accelerated learning opportunities through inquiry, action and critical reflection.

We customize programs for teams, groups, and organizations.

We are licensed first responders, lifeguards, paddling guides and crisis prevention experts with over 30 years of combined experience.

Learn more about what we do >

Zach Burns, MA Ed

Owner/Operator

Experiental Education

Zach’s passion for adventure began at an early age, as he grew up exploring the forests and waters of northern Minnesota – he’s a fifth generation Duluthian.

His desire to explore led him to receive an undergraduate degree in Adventure Education, and later a Master’s in Education with an emphasis on Experiential Education from Prescott College.

After an Outward Bound Leadership Semester, Zach continued to pursue his passions for adventure and education as he became a senior staff trainer for Outward Bound, Instructor at Prescott College and a Program Manager for the University of New Hampshire’s Browne Center for Innovative Learning.

Zach has over 15 years of experience designing and delivering diverse adventure-based and experiential programming with youth and adults nationally and internationally. He’s a passionate educator and facilitator, dedicated to delivering engaging programming to maximize the clients experience and growth through an accelerated learning process.

Now, Zach and his wife Renee have returned to Duluth, bringing with them a passion for experiential learning and a powerful skill set.

When Zach isn’t working, he can be found with friends and family exploring “the playground that awaits” along the Northshore of Lake Superior.

• Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
• CPR, Infant and Adult 
• Nonviolent Crisis Prevention (CPI)
• Avalanche Forecasting AVI 1
• Lifeguard

Feel free to send Zach an email: zach@encompasslearning.org

Renee Brechter Burns

Owner/Operator

MSW (Candidate for 2017)

Renee is a passionate educator, outdoor enthusiast and life-long learner. She’s originally from the Philadelphia area, but her love of adventure has brought her all over the country.

Renee’s work is informed by the diversity of experiences that she has been exposed to. She believes in the power of the process, and the importance of creating safe environments for groups and individuals to explore and celebrate their potential.

Renee has been working with youth and young adults in a variety of settings for over 10 years. She has worked with different wilderness therapy programs and schools around the country, including in Hawaii, Oregon and Maine. She has designed and delivered numerous experiential programs to families, youth-at risk, educators and teams. Renee’s background in playing competitive sports, as well as her backcountry travels, inform her ability to develop and deliver top-notch group and team-building programs.

Renee earned a Bachelor of Science Degree with an emphasis on Environmental Science and Outdoor Pursuits from Prescott College in Prescott, AZ. In addition to her work with Encompass Learning, Renee is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in clinical social work. 

When Renee is not studying, you can find her training for her next marathon, exploring the great outdoors and spending time with friends and family.

• Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
• CPR, Infant and Adult 
• Nonviolent Crisis Prevention (CPI)
• Avalanche Forecasting AVI

Feel free to send Renee an email: renee@encompasslearning.org

Any questions? Feel free to contact us >