- 2 days Duration 2 days
Take our two-day Sierra Rescue River Rescue certification course to learn everyday safety skills as well as how to handle rescue situations effectively.
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Please submit the form below if interested!
Raft Guide Training is often the first step for people who end up enjoying a lifelong passion for whitewater. Trainees who attend all dates will be invited to continue their training throughout the rest of the fall, with weekly practice trips down the river throughout the winter (weather permitting) until the 2023 season begins.
Schedule for Fall 2022 Raft Guide training:
September 24-25 – Richmond
October 1-2 – Richmond
October 8-9 – Swiftwater Rescue Training
October 15-16 – Optional out-of-town weekend **location TBD**
Upon completion of training, employment is not guaranteed. It depends on your performance as well as interaction with your fellow guides. All employees must carry current CPR and First Aid certifications.
Why RVA Paddlesports?
Our trainers come with decades of experience on many rivers across the US and abroad. When training with RVA Paddlesports you are not just learning the lines on the James, but skills that are transferable to a lifelong passion of river running. We pride ourselves in preparing our guides to the highest industry standards and professionalism. We have a fun work environment that promotes both constructive feedback and positivity to foster personal growth and a team mentality.
Additional information
Additional information on specific qualifications and expectations can be found on our employment page. Training is open to applicants ages 16 and up. Completion of Raft Guide Training and the accompanying Sierra Rescue River Rescue Certification is required for employment as a Raft Guide.
To apply, please fill out the Raft Guide Training Application, and send a cover letter to [email protected]. If you are an experienced guide, please include your river experience log.
See You On The River!
RVA Paddlesports will be offering two scholarships for the Fall 2022 Raft Guide class. These scholarships are for teenagers and young adults aged 16-21 and cover the entire cost of training. Upon completion of training, those selected for the scholarship will also have the opportunity to be matched into our 2023 summer internship program to gain valuable experience working as a raft guide and learn the daily duties and responsibilities required to manage an adventure sports company. This program is a great opportunity for those who wish to challenge themselves and grow both personally and professionally.
The scholarship program is designed to help young people overcome potential financial barriers that may prevent them from getting on the water. With this scholarship we hope to grow the paddling community by fostering a love for the outdoors and passion for whitewater for generations to come.
To apply for the RVA Paddlesports Spring Guide Training Scholarship, please send a letter answering the following questions to [email protected].*
*Please note: Scholarship applicants are still expected to fill out the Raft Guide Training Application.