A vital asset for every outdoor leader is the ability to collaborate and work through challenges with others. The NAWA Spring Training is an excellent experience for the outdoor leader who wishes to improve their technical skills, add new tricks to their repertoire, and experience a rewarding and fulfilling challenge. My experiences at Spring Training were filled with new knowledge and wonderful experiences. For the new and experienced outdoor leader, the spring training will challenge everyone. I strongly urge my students to attend as a supplement to their current leadership development.

I have been through and have led many different types of challenge and adventure education programs for various age groups, but found NAWA RESCUE'S Spring Rescue Training to be the most advanced and personally stretching experience I have been associated with. It impressed me so much that I have created a new class in our Outdoor Leadership major that will directly incorporate this program offered by NAWA RESCUE. I believe that this program can simultaneously challenge the college student, corporate professional, and rescue technician.

The Spring Rescue Training was a valuable tool for our staff who were responsible for our Freshmen Wilderness Orientation program. Our staff developed skills that better prepared them for leading technical activities and gleaned valuable group facilitation skills through the process.

I have attended the Nawa spring training twice, and each time I learned so much. What really impressed me about Nawa's training approach is the fact that each student was a part of each exercise, and actually got to work "hands-on" with every single piece of gear in each system. For example, when we were learning about Z-drags, we set it up and tore it down many times, each time rotating positions of "go-fer", rigger, leader, brake, haul team lead, haul team member, etc.. The instructor's never seemed to tire of answering our many questions, and always had very good reasons to choose one method over another in various situations. The instructors are very knowledgeable, and pointed out some not too obvious fine points that I have never seen presented elsewhere. Plus, the best part of all was that the training was a lot of fun and it didn't take long for our group to be working as a team. I highly recommend this training to anyone who loves playing in the outdoors. My thanks go out to all the great instructors at Nawa for such a great learning experience!

Overview - You’re invited to join us for a comprehensive five day training that covers multiple disciplines in climbing, rescue, problem solving, and teambuilding. This hands-on training is designed for group leaders, wilderness guides, rescue personnel or those who work with people in the outdoor environment. Those who have an interest in potential employment with Nawa are also encouraged to attend. Training is provided by a team of highly qualified and experienced instructors. For more information on these instructors, please contact the office of admissions at (800) 358-6292.

As the course progresses, scenarios will increase in complexity. This occurs as participants gain solid skills and learn to improvise in specific situations. Please note that prior experience is not required to benefit from this training. That’s what we are here for- to teach. However, a strong will to learn and the ability to work within a group is essential.

Nawa provides all safety gear and equipment needed for the training. Participants have the option of bringing personal harnesses, climbing helmets, and PFD's (personal flotation devices). Full body wetsuits, booties, and neoprene gloves are required for the Swift Water Rescue portion of the week and are not provided by Nawa. There is a local dive shop that rents quality (warm) full body wetsuits for excellent prices. Call Nawa for more information. A certificate of course completion and a certificate for Swift Water Rescue I, Vertical Rescue I and Cave Rescue I, will be issued to those who successfully complete the course curriculum.

Admissions

Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis, with spaces limited. To reserve a space in the 19th annual Nawa Spring Rescue Training, Nawa must receive a completed registration form and a non-refundable deposit of $100.00. This deposit is subtracted from the program cost of $500.00. The program cost includes all training, safety equipment, food, free camping, and certificates of completion.

Upon receipt of the registration form and deposit, a letter of confirmation will be sent along with a map, clothing and camping list, and forms to be completed and returned. The balance of the program cost is due 10 days prior to the start of the training.

Participants are responsible for providing their own camping equipment and full body wetsuit. This full body wetsuit must be capable of maintaining warmth during extended periods of submersion. Details are included in the clothing and camping list.

Call the office of admission at (800) 358-6292 to register. Please make checks payable to Nawa.