Patrol Preparation
Candidate Training
Once selected, candidates enter a structured training program that prepares them for the demands of ski patrol. Training covers emergency medicine, mountain operations, and the skills needed to keep guests safe on the hill.
What to Expect
Candidate training is a season-long commitment that blends didactic online modules, classroom instruction, hands-on skills practice, and on-hill mentorship. You'll train alongside experienced patrollers and work toward your National Ski Patrol Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) certification and Alpine National Ski Patrol Certification.
Training Areas
Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC)
The NSP's OEC program is the cornerstone of patrol training. You'll learn patient assessment, trauma care, medical emergencies, and rescue techniques to the standard of a nationally recognized certification.
Toboggan Handling
Patrollers must be able to safely transport injured guests down any terrain. Candidates practice loading, securing, and skiing with a toboggan on a variety of slopes and conditions.
Mountain Operations
Learn the operational side of ski patrol — opening and closing runs, placing and managing signage, lift evacuation procedures, and communicating with ski area staff.
CPR & AED
All patrollers must hold a current CPR/AED certification. Candidates complete or renew this certification as part of the training program.
On-Hill Mentorship
Candidates are paired with experienced patrollers during shifts to apply skills in real situations under guided supervision before patrolling independently.
NSP Certification
Successful completion of training and required evaluations leads to full National Ski Patrol certification and active patroller status.
Training Timeline
OEC Coursework Begins
OEC Course is a blended program including a didactic/online portion which opens in the summer and an in-person classroom skills portion that begins in the fall. Candidates complete required reading, online course modules and attend scheduled class nights.
On-Hill Skills Practice
As the hill opens, candidates begin supervised on-hill training — ski and ride proficiency training, toboggan handling, patient scenarios, and operational procedures alongside veteran patrollers.
Evaluations & Assessments
Candidates complete OEC practical and written evaluations in late fall, ski and ride and toboggan proficiency evaluations by mid-February, and other required skill checks throughout the season.
Certification & Active Status
Candidates who successfully complete all requirements receive their NSP certification and are welcomed as fully active patrollers for the following season. Each season a patroller is required and must complete approximately 15 to 19 shifts to remain active on the Afton Ski Patrol.
Ready to Begin?
Review the joining process or reach out to patrol leadership with any questions about training requirements and scheduling.