Scott Howard was part of the urchin diving industry when he recognized the necessity for a climbing gym in Portland, Maine. According to Howard, many urchin divers were climbers, but had to travel far to reach a facility. He put his heart, soul, and bank account into creating the Maine Rock Gym (MRG), which came to fruition in September 1994. Howard credits the tenacity of Mainers to the completion of the MRG. However, as the community grew, he realized an even bigger and better facility was needed. He teamed up with Hilary Harris and Cort Gariepy from EVO Rock + Fitness, Inc., Mike Lambert and Keith Morris—momentum grew.
In 2015 EVO Rock + Fitness opened and there was much rejoicing. Howard’s vision for EVO revolves around what the climbing community needs to move upward and stay strong. In addition to helping manage the EVO squad, he runs a commercial greenhouse called Olivia’s Garden, and is also a fly fishing guide. In his spare time, he enjoys skiing, mountain biking, being with his 3 kids, and eating bok choy.