Instructor Progression: 

There are two levels of instructor qualifications.

1. Course Instructor - qualified to instruct Level 2 courses under a Course Leader.  A Course Leader must be present for the entire course.

2. Course Leader - qualified to Course Lead a Level 2.  A Course Leader is required on all courses.  A course leader must be present during the entire course.

The qualifications for Level 2 Instructors and Course Leaders are below.

Course Instructor - Level 2

Required Qualifications

• Recent observation of an AIARE Level 2 course.
• AIARE Instructor Training Course Level 2 and two years of experience applying weather, snowpack and avalanche observations (SWAG standard).
• AIARE Level 2 course certificate and AIARE Level 3 certificate
• AAA membership (Professional Level Membership recommended).
• Minimum 5 years personal experience with leadership and decision making in backcountry avalanche terrain.

Required Continued Professional Development

• Update teaching materials as they become available.
• AIARE IT/IRC Course (minimum every 3 years); or AIARE peer review.

Recommended Qualifications

• AMGA Ski Guide or Alpine Guide training course.
• AAA certified instructor.

† Equivalent training/experience must be approved by the AIARE Technical Director.

Course Leader - Level 2

Required Qualifications

• Instructor experience on 3 or more AIARE Level 2 courses.
• Letter of recommendation from a supervising AIARE Course Leader outlining Level 2 courses taught, professional leadership experience and teaching experience.
• Level 3 certificate.
• AIARE Instructor Training Course for Level 1 and Level 2.
• Minimum of four winters professional leadership experience in backcountry terrain.
• AAA membership (Professional Level Membership recommended).

Required Continued Professional Development

• Update teaching materials as they become available.
• AIARE IT/IRC Course (minimum every 3 years); or AIARE peer review.

Recommended Qualifications

• AAA certified instructor (will be required within the next few years).
• AMGA Ski Guide or Alpine Guide certification