VTC: Pilot Level 1 Trainer Course Pre-Convention 2025

This is an invite only class.

To get on the list for future trainer course opportunities go to https://caves.org/vtc/vtc-course-trainer-application/

For more information about the VTC and how to get involved https://caves.org/vtc/

VTC has been developing our Level 1 trainer-course curriculum, and we have been holding a series of pilot trainer courses to finalize this key course offering.

Our curriculum committee has designed this course to give Level 1 trainer candidates the knowledge and skills needed to effectively deliver the VTC Level 1 vertical-skills course curriculum.

We expect that all course participants will be engaged and participate throughout the course, including carefully reviewing all course materials and online content and attending a Zoom meeting prior to the in-person portions. We also expect everyone to provide constructive feedback regarding the course content and delivery. VTC’s curriculum committee will use the feedback received to improve the Level 1 trainer course curriculum.

Prior to the course, you will need to do the following:

• Have purchased, read, and and be prepared to teach the curriculum materials contained in  the student handbook Basic Vertical Techniques, which is available through the NSS bookstore at a significant discount for registered trainer candidates, and also may be purchased from most caving vendors;
• Demonstrate the following (to a VTC regional coordinator or master trainer before the course):
  – Caving and vertical gear that is in conformance with the Required Equipment for Level 1 trainer candidates;
  – Fluid competency* in tying all required knots for Level 1 trainer candidates; and
  – Fluid competency* in all required Level 1 on-rope skills using at least one of the four standard VTC ascending systems.

While this Level 1 trainer-pilot course will primarily focus on the Frog ascending system (because it has become the most popular among U.S. vertical cavers), you may also become qualified to train students in one or more of the three other VTC ascending systems – Mitchell, Ropewalker, and Texas – by demonstrating fluid competency* in all of the Level 1 on-rope skills while using the respective ascending system(s).

Please note the following:

• * Fluid competency means performing a task so seamlessly that it appears effortless, with no pauses or deliberate thought during execution. It’s when a skill has been practiced to such a degree that it becomes almost automatic, allowing the performer to act with natural ease. This level of mastery not only signifies that the individual has internalized the mechanics of the task, but also sets a high standard for students to follow.
• All requirements are currently in draft form, and are subject to change;
• If you are unable to successfully complete the pre-course requirements, you may still be eligible to try again for a future trainer course;
• Attendance at the VTC Level 1 trainer pilot course does not automatically mean that you will be qualified as a VTC trainer. The process of becoming a VTC trainer is more completely described in VTC’s current  Trainer Qualification Procedures, which we encourage you to read and become familiar with before taking the course.

Additional information and learning resources are available at the VTC website: https://caves.org/vtc