Open VTC Positions
The Vertical Training Commission (VTC) is structured as a national commission within the National Speleological Society (NSS), tasked with overseeing vertical training of interested cavers within the United States. To do this, VTC helps define the vertical competencies and educational materials needed to train interested cavers through grottos, regional, and national events. VTC is structured with a board of regional coordinators and officers, as well as a curriculum committee, and we welcome any nominations or self-nominations to serve in these positions; please fill out an application below for open positions, or express your interest through our Get Involved survey.
Level 1 Trainer
Open to current NSS members who are at least 18 years old and experienced in vertical caving, and who would like to train others in basic vertical techniques in accordance with the approved VTC Level 1 curriculum. Learn more and apply for this trainer position at the link below.
Officer: National Coodinator
VTC is currently accepting applications for the National Coordinator who oversees VTC activities, coordinates with the Regional Coordinators and Curriculum Committee, and serves as NSS liaison.
Master Trainer
Open to current NSS members who are at least 18 years old and highly experienced in vertical caving and vertical-skills training, and who would like to train trainer candidates to become VTC trainers and potentially also train students in accordance with approved VTC curricula. Learn about the qualifications and apply for this position at the link below.
Curriculum Committee
VTC is currently accepting applications for two Curriculum Committee members. The Curriculum Committee develops the VTC educational materials and evaluates their effectiveness.
Regional Coordinator
VTC is currently accepting applications for Regional Coordinator in the Rocky Mountain, Western, and North Eastern Regions. Regional Coordinators are responsible for overseeing caver training programs by approving curricula, managing trainer qualifications, and coordinating training courses.
Recording Secretary
VTC is currently accepting applications for the NEW role of Recording Secretary, who attends monthly board meetings, prepares and distributes meeting minutes, maintains organizational records and staff lists, updates key documents, and supports administrative tracking. This role requires about 5–6 hours per month, and reports to the secretary-treasurer.