Optional · 1 of 3

Certifications that get you hired

• Wilderness First Responder

  The baseline. Roughly 80 hours and almost every serious employer requires it.

• Swiftwater rescue

  Required to work on moving water anywhere reputable.

• Avalanche training

  Professional level courses for anyone guiding on snow in winter.

• Single Pitch Instructor

  An AMGA (American Mountain Guides Association) certification, and the usual first step for climbing instructors.

• Coast Guard captain's license

  Needed for sea kayaking, sailing and boat supported trips.

• Commercial driver's license

  Shuttle buses and large vans need one, and it makes you far more useful to an outfitter.