Stack of balanced stones on a rocky beach with ocean waves in the background.

Our Mission

The aim of our work is to create safe and meaningful experiences that build empathy, enhance relationships, and contribute to a more joyful and compassionate world.

Silhouettes of four people on a rocky hill at sunset, with a vibrant orange sky and sun flares.

Outdoor Education Consulting

Group of skydivers forming a circle formation in mid-air against a landscape background.

Coaching and Training

  • EQ-i 2.0 & EQ360 Assessments

  • Coaching for Emerging Professionals

  • Emotional Intelligence

  • Experiential Education Principles

  • Leadership Development

A man holding a microphone stands in front of an audience at an indoor event, possibly a conference or seminar. Several people are engaged in lively interaction; one person wears a safari hat. The room is dimly lit with green ambient lighting. In the foreground, there is a plant.

Speaking and Events

Dan%2BMiller%2B1.jpg

“I am passionate about creating safe and transformative educational experiences. During my 20+ years as a wilderness instructor, educator, and program manager, I have had the privilege of working at all levels with a wide variety of outdoor and experiential education programs. I’m excited to share that experience with you in an effort to strengthen your program and your team.”

Experience Matters

Dan Miller, President and Chief Consultant

Bio:

Dan Miller is the founder of Fifth Pillar Consulting.  He is a respected figure in the field of experiential education and has been working to develop confident and compassionate leaders for over 25 years.

Dan has spent over 1500 days leading groups in the wilderness while working as an Instructor, Course Director, and eventually Staffing Manager with the North Carolina Outward Bound School.  After a 15-year stint in outdoor education, Dan was hired by the Association for Experiential Education (AEE) to manage their prestigious accreditation program.  During his time at AEE, Dan wore many hats including Chief Learning Officer and Acting CEO.

Throughout his career, Dan has honed his ability to use experiential methodology to help others improve their confidence, leadership, and interpersonal skills.  He is just as comfortable working with underprivileged youth as he is with Fortune 500 Executives.  As a professional musician and performer, Dan brings a high level of creativity and fun to his work in organizational development.  As a computer geek, he has been very successful in navigating the pivot to virtual facilitation and has put out multiple publications on the subject.

Outside of work, Dan has traveled around the world seeking out some of the most beautiful natural spaces to explore. Some of his favorites include the Overland Trek in Tasmania and Corcovado National Park in Costa Rica. Closer to home in Asheville, North Carolina, he can be found climbing and hiking in Pisgah National Forest or spending quality time with family and friends.