The National Ski Patrol (NSP) Certified Program represents the pinnacle of professional development for ski patrollers who have demonstrated exceptional skills, leadership, and dedication to the highest standards of patrolling. This prestigious program is designed for those who have gained significant experience through their work on the slopes and participation in various NSP educational programs, such as Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC), Avalanche, and Mountain Travel and Rescue (MTR). The Certified Program is a self-guided, continuous learning path aimed at those who are ready to take their knowledge and abilities to the next level.

Mission

The mission of the Certified Program is to identify, develop, and certify patrollers who have shown superior proficiency and leadership within the NSP. Certified patrollers are expected to contribute significantly to the NSP, the National Ski Area Association (NSAA), and the broader skiing and riding community by providing top-tier training, support, and service. The program emphasizes continuous growth in leadership, skills, and capabilities, ensuring that certified members are prepared to serve at the highest levels of ski patrol excellence.

Program Structure

The Certified Program is structured to promote growth in leadership, skills, and knowledge within the snow sports industry at the highest level of ski patrol. It leverages a combination of NSP educational offerings and other relevant resources to provide a comprehensive development experience. The program includes the following key responsibilities:

• Maintaining Credentials: Ensuring that the standards and criteria for certification are upheld and regularly reviewed.
• Examination Criteria and Review: Establishing and reviewing the criteria and processes for examinations to maintain consistency and rigor.
• Ongoing Module Updates: Continuously updating training modules to reflect current industry best practices and innovations.
• Support for Other NSP Programs: Providing leadership and expertise to support other NSP programs and the broader snowsports industry through active participation in various leadership roles.

Certified Program Modules

The Certified Program consists of six core modules, each designed to test the candidate’s physical endurance, knowledge, and experience. Successful completion of these modules is required for certification:

1. Avalanche: This module requires candidates to demonstrate a thorough understanding of avalanche hazard assessment, proper equipment use, safety procedures, and some mitigation techniques. The evaluation includes a written exam, an oral interview, and an on-mountain practical session.
2. Low Angle/Lift Evacuation: Candidates are evaluated on their skills in low-angle rescue techniques and lift evacuation procedures. This module includes both indoor and outdoor evaluations, where candidates must demonstrate proficiency in essential rescue knots, mechanical advantage systems, and safe lift evacuation processes.
3. Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC): This module tests candidates on their extensive knowledge and practical application of OEC skills in highly complex scenarios. Candidates must demonstrate leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities in scenarios that simulate real-life emergencies on the mountain.
4. Outdoor Risk Management (ORM): In this module, candidates are assessed on their understanding of ski area management policies, daily operations, and risk management practices. The evaluation includes both indoor interviews and on-hill assessments to ensure candidates can effectively manage on-hill operations under various conditions.
5. Skiing/Riding: Candidates must demonstrate advanced skiing or riding skills in challenging terrain, including single and double black diamond trails with moguls. This module evaluates the candidate’s ability to navigate and inspect trails under varying conditions, ensuring they can reach and manage accident scenes effectively.
6. Toboggan Handling: This module focuses on the candidate’s ability to handle a toboggan in difficult terrain. Candidates must demonstrate safe and effective toboggan handling techniques, including patient transport on steep, moguled slopes. The evaluation emphasizes control, safety, and the ability to adapt to varying terrain and snow conditions.

Evaluation and Certification

The Certified Program’s evaluation process is rigorous and designed to ensure only the most skilled and knowledgeable patrollers achieve certification. Each module includes a combination of written exams, oral interviews, and practical on-hill assessments. Candidates are required to demonstrate not only technical proficiency but also critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership abilities under pressure.

Successful candidates who pass all six modules receive the Certified designation, a mark of excellence within the NSP. This certification signifies that the individual has met the highest standards of ski patrolling and is equipped to contribute at the highest levels within the NSP and the broader snow sports industry.

Prerequisites and Application

To be eligible for the Certified Program, candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:

• NSP Membership: Candidates must be NSP members in good standing for at least 5 years as a volunteer or 3 years as a paid patroller.
• Educational Requirements: Successful completion of the NSP Avalanche 1 and MTR 1 courses, or their equivalents, is mandatory.
• Leadership Experience: Volunteer candidates must have held leadership roles within NSP programs for a minimum of 3 years.

The application process is comprehensive and includes the following steps:

• Written Application: Candidates must submit a formal application obtained from their Division Credentials Supervisor or Certified Program Chairperson.
• Questionnaire or Essay: Candidates must complete a questionnaire or write an essay describing their motivations for pursuing certification and the value they will bring to the program and the NSP.
• Letters of Recommendation: At least two letters of recommendation are required. These letters should come from current Certified members, Patrol Directors, or other senior NSP leaders and should provide detailed insight into the candidate’s qualifications, abilities, and character.

The NSP Certified Program represents the highest level of achievement for ski patrollers. It is a continuous professional development pathway that ensures the most capable and experienced patrollers are recognized and equipped to serve at the highest levels. Certified patrollers are leaders in their field, contributing their expertise not only within the NSP but also to the broader snow sports and outdoor recreation communities.

Whether you are a patroller looking to advance your career or a ski area manager seeking top-tier training and leadership for your team, the Certified Program offers a comprehensive and challenging path to excellence.