Looking to take some Avalanche classes....

50Kal

50Kal

Active member
Title says it. But here lies my dilemma.

I know that I should be taking classes where I spend most my time skiing. Problem is I am planning to travel around and ski a bunch of places this late winter and possibly applying for some jobs that require professional Avi skills (looking in Alaska).

I hear that Canada's avalanche programs are at much higher standards and what guide employers are looking for. Is there any truth in that?

Should I shell out the extra cash and take some classes in Canada land? Or just take a normal classes in the states?

Thoughts?
 
If you currently have taken zero avalanche classes I would say that it won't hurt you to just stay in the US and take your level 1 course. In the US the course curriculum splits after level 1 and you choose if you want to take classes that are more geared towards guiding(pro) or towards recreational back country travel(rec). No matter which one you take the class will be beneficial, the knowledge should transfer to anywhere that you can successfully read the avi bulletin. Just make sure that your course is AIARE(American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education) certified and take a look at their website for more info on the difference between the classes and the pro/rec split.https://avtraining.org/. Regardless the level 1 class will be your first step since it is a prerequisite for the pro level 1 if you decide to go that route.
 
Avy 1 class is worth it. Mine was really good. I work at a college and I'd say it was a better value than most college courses even if you are paying community college prices. Seemed expensive when I signed up but it was totally worth it.
 
Anyone looking to take a course on the east coast, i know theres not much avalanche threat out here but im still interested in learning about it
 
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