Drew’s love for the outdoors began in childhood, growing up in rural southwestern Virginia and the Colorado foothills. Early adventures traipsing around the dense forests of Appalachia, camping in the Rocky Mountains and swimming in the ocean fostered a deep love for nature, and this connection to the wild steered him toward a life dedicated to conservation and travel.

Drew pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies and Philosophy with an environmental science concentration at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida. Fascinated by big questions—why the world is the way it is and how he could create meaningful change—Drew studied abroad four times. These excursions profoundly impacted his worldview, particularly a research trip to Northern Tanzania. Watching the sunrise from the rim of Ol Donyo Lengai volcano, overlooking the Serengeti and Rift Valley, he felt as a true sense of belonging.

Upon graduating, he joined the Hawaii Institute for Pacific Agriculture, then managed a small winery in Santa Barbara. Next, at No Barriers USA, Drew led people with differing abilities and socioeconomic backgrounds on more than 25 backcountry expeditions across 10 countries. Later, he joined Colorado State University to manage travel programs during the pandemic, before joining Nat Hab.

Drew spends his free time throwing pottery, exploring macro photography, leading wilderness yoga retreats and practicing lapidary work. An avid ocean lover, he enjoys sailing, swimming and scuba diving. Drew lives with his husband and two cats in northern California.