VTC Level 1 trainer course application

Thank you for your interest in the Vertical Training Commission of the National Speleological Society. The Level 1 trainer course is the first step towards becoming a qualified VTC trainer. In order to ensure that you are well prepared for success in VTC's Level 1 trainer course, it is important to already be well-versed in VTC's Level 1 curriculum, and also to have achieved fluid competency in all of the VTC Level 1 skills in at least one ascending system, all three of the VTC approved descender types, the VTC Level 1 knots, and the basic rigging techniques used at the VTC Level 1 courses. To these ends, VTC's current  Trainer Qualification Procedures require that prospective trainer candidates have taken a VTC Level 1 course as a student. As an alternative for experienced vertical cavers who are confident that they are already have fluid vertical skills competency and familiarity with the VTC Level 1 curriculum, VTC's trainer qualification committee (TQC) currently allows trainer applicants to help teach at a Level 1 course as a specialist (and receive a favorable recommendation from the lead trainer at that course).

What is the VTC Level 1 trainer course?
The Level 1 trainer course is not a "next level" of VTC courses. The skills taught in this course are intended to be utilized to teach the VTC Level 1 curriculum to future students. The Level 1 trainer course is designed to enhance your instructional skills and to provide you with a review of the VTC curricula, policies and procedures, and rigging skills necessary for successfully running a VTC course.

To successfully complete the course, trainer candidates must demonstrate proficiency in teaching, exhibit detailed knowledge of the VTC curriculum and policies, use vertical systems consistent with the VTC Level 1 curriculum, and pass all practical skills demonstrations and written tests. Trainer candidates will be expected to conduct themselves and teach the curriculum in a positive, professional, and effective manner.