Benjamin Webb is truly dedicated to making an impact on the students and families he works with—he makes learning come alive. A lifelong learner, Ben is constantly curious about how things work, and he inspires that same curiosity in students, chaperones, and colleagues alike. His willingness to be vulnerable and approachable allows him to build deep rapport in just a three-day program, often inspiring students to return to Cal-Wood Education Center, spend more time outdoors independently, or even consider environmental education as a career. He acts as a teacher, mentor, and trusted guide, with a special passion for supporting students who are new to the outdoors.

Ben began working at Cal-Wood just three months before the pandemic began. Despite the uncertainty, he chose to stay and contribute to the organization’s success. During the Cal-Wood Fire in 2020, Ben was helping build a trail when he spotted smoke and immediately took action, assisting with the safe evacuation of families and staff. This experience became a turning point in his work. Rather than being discouraged, Ben recognized an opportunity for Cal-Wood to become a hub for fire education and resilience.

“Our instructor was Ben. He was a phenomenal instructor… I thought it was poetic to watch a group of children heavily impacted by the Marshall Fire learn to build fires. They treated that fire with great curiosity and respect and Ben set the stage so that all kids could be successful… It was fun to listen to them make connections and grow tighter as a group.” – Parent, Douglass Elementary

Everyone wants Ben on their team. He is kind, passionate, warm, and engaging with everyone he interacts with. Teachers and students consistently remember him for the way he brings learning to life. He finds joy in every situation, even in challenging weather or circumstances, and gives his full energy to teaching each day.

Ben’s leadership at Cal-Wood is both formal and informal, and essential to the organization’s success. As a Senior Field Instructor, he trains and mentors all of our new staff, helping to maintain the high quality of Cal-Wood’s programming. He has taken a lead role in onboarding and supporting AmeriCorps members, ensuring they feel confident and supported in their roles. He regularly plans and facilitates staff training, shares curriculum innovations, and models excellence in teaching.

While Ben is a natural leader, he intentionally prioritizes staying connected to students through teaching. This balance makes him especially impactful—he leads by example, demonstrating what high-quality environmental education looks like in practice every day. His passion for education, stewardship, and community has become a defining part of Cal-Wood’s culture and legacy.
 

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