VTC Curriculum Committee
The Curriculum Committee must be composed of a minimum of five NSS members and includes cavers with expertise in education, advanced and technical vertical expertise, and international caving experience. The current Curriculum Committee have a combined 150 years of caving experience and have explored caves in over 37 countries, includes university professors and teachers, professional rope access and grotto trainers, along with experienced cave climbers and riggers. The responsibilities of the Curriculum Committee are to develop the VTC educational materials, evaluate their effectiveness and solicit feedback from those interested in seeing improved vertical education in the US. Members are appointed to the Curriculum Committee by the VTC Board for a term of four years.
Curriculum Committee
Hazel Barton
Over 30 years of caving experience, including many international expeditions. More than 20 years in education, including several courses in teaching techniques. Hazel is currently the Education Coordinator for the NSS Vertical Section and past Chair of the NSS Safety and Techniques Committee.
Reilly Blackwell
Began caving in 2016 with the VPI cave club and has been an active teacher in its training program. She has worked for the NSS as an intern, has a SPRAT level one certification and has participated in caving expeditions all over the US and Mexico.
Derek Bristol
Project caver who specializes in survey, videography and technical climbing. Exploring and mapping a variety of caves from across the US and internationally since 1989. A broad base of technical rope experience including sport, traditional, aid, big wall and ice climbing, as well as mountaineering, canyoneering and caving.
Emily Davis
Has been an active caver since 1969. Her career as a professional educator lasted until she began running her current business, Speleobooks, full time in 1986. Emily has been involved in assisting with NCRC classes, regional cave rescue organizations and several cave-based land trusts throughout her caving career.
Jeremy Weremeichik
Introduced to caving in 2004 and became a member of the NSS in 2011. Have participated in caving activities and research in both the United States and The Bahamas. Jeremy has taught geoscience course in higher education and is currently working as a field geologist.
Tim White
Active member of the vertical and cave rescue community for over 30 years, with a broad resume that covers both technical rope rescue and rope access. Currently works as a professional rope rescue and rope access trainer/manager working with adults in an educational environment.