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Whitewater Rafting Guide Courses

Chinook River Sports trains several new guides each year as a way of introduction into the industry and lifestyle. Many of our valued staff members are prior graduates of this program.

 
River Guides Course/Traineeship
River Guiding is one of the greatest jobs on earth with worldwide opportunity. It is a way of combining employment with enjoyment and excitement in the outdoors. River Guiding presents challenges, requiring considerable skill and knowledge. It is an occupation that develops personal confidence, positive people skills and leadership ability. 

Our course training includes such topics as:
- River reading and hydrology, decision making and skills for safe river running;
- Equipment (safety and repair);
- Guiding skills such as steering a raft, paddling commands, raft leadership, ethics, leadership skills, interpersonal skills, and meal preparation;
- Rescue techniques such as self-rescue, capsize scenarios, rope systems, first aid and dealing with emergency situations; plus many more.

The traineeship involves a seven day intensive training schedule which combines evening lectures and theory with action-packed, full days of on-water training. As the week progresses, so do the challenges. Begin on the introductory rapids of the Kananaskis and Bow Rivers before testing your newfound skills on the more remote and exciting Highwood River. Candidates who excel during the week will be offered a seasonal position with Chinook River Sports during which time further training will precede employment during the summer. 

Price and Booking
The course is free to those who qualify. Swiftwater Rescue, Level II Certification is included in the week for those who successfully qualify. Applying for the traineeship is similar to applying for a job. A resume and cover letter must be sent by email to info [at] chinookrafting [dot] com for review and consideration before a series of interviews are conducted. Only candidates who are considering a long-term position employed in the rafting industry will be considered. A commitment to Chinook River Sports during your first river season is expected should you succeed in the course. For those who would like to participate without a traineeship, the course is available for a fee of $700.00. 

What is included?
The course includes all training and instruction throughout the week, rafting equipment, Swiftwater Rescue Level I & II Certification with handbook, Professional River Outfitters Association of Alberta (PROAOA) Guiding Certification, log book and some accommodation. Personal transportation and food during the course must be supplied by the course participant. Accommodation will be riverside camping. Participants must supply all of their personal camping equipment and cover any camping fees that may be applicable throughout the week. Camping at Chinook basecamps is included when available.

Equipment
All necessary rafting and safety equipment will be provided as needed. Chinook River Sports uses only top-of-the-line equipment for your safety and enjoyment. Participants who already own their own equipment are encouraged to bring it. 

Guides
Be trained by the best. Our guides bring with them a wealth of knowledge and a fun-loving attitude. They are all holders of valid First-aid and Wilderness First-aid certificates and are qualified Swift Water Rescue Technicians. We ensure a guide-to-client ratio that guarantees you will be able to maximize your learning experience. 

Certification
Lifesaving Society of Canada Swift Water Rescue Level I & II and PROAOA guiding certification is included. Applicable administration fees for the certification do apply to trainees. Please contact us for current certification rates. Please note that all participants must hold valid first aid and CPR to qualify for Swiftwater Rescue Certification. 

Course Dates
TBA 

Pre-Requisites for Free Traineeship
Applicants must be a minimum of 18 years of age. Applicants must have an interest in long term employment in the river rafting industry. Applicants must be available to continue training and working for the 2010 season. A commitment to Chinook River Sports during your first river season is expected should you succeed in the course. Successful applicants will be first aid certified prior to the traineeship. A valid drivers license with good driving record is required. Those being offered the opportunity to participate in the traineeship will be responsible for providing a current drivers abstract prior to being accepted on the course. Applications for this year's traineeship should be received on/or prior to March 15, each year, for consideration. Only those qualifying for an interview will be contacted.


 

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