Post Guide School training and work opportunities
Attending AO’s Guide School does not guarantee employment with us, however, we do prefer to hire from our own pool of students. Upon completion of school most students will require additional training to prepare them for their first commercial trip. For that reason we offer a training program to qualified candidates from guide school.
In determining a student's potential to become an AO guide, and a subsequent invitation to our training program, we look for the qualities we cannot teach rather than one’s whitewater skills. We have found that in time most everyone can learn to guide Class III whitewater, whereas certain personal attributes cannot be taught. Students who demonstrate an outstanding work ethic, stellar interpersonal skills, a positive attitude, and grace under pressure will be invited to join the training program. To better understand the role of a river guide, read the job description of a River Guide.
A note about certifications
If you choose to pursue employment as a commercial guide, government agencies will require that you be certified in CPR & First Aid. You can participate in the training program without those certifications, but you cannot work until you have them completed. You are required to have a basic level certification in CPR and First Aid, however, we recommend upgrading to Community CPR (where you will learn 2-person and child techniques) and Wilderness First Aid. There are many reputable organizations that offer 2-year certifications. Some recommended organizations include NOLS, Sierra Rescue, and Wilderness Outings.
