W.I.L.D. Training Institute – Please call us or email us with any questions.

Courses

Course information provided below is subject to change.

JANUARY

February

*Cancelled due to low enrollment. Will reschedule later in the year.  Stay tuned for more information! This 16-hour course teaches fundamental skills in using a map and compass to find your way in the wilderness, covering topics like map interpretation, terrain association, compass use, calculating distance and direction, and practical field exercises for hands-on experience. This course includes lessons and hands-on exercises featuring topographic maps, understanding contour lines grid systems, setting azimuths/bearings, establishing pace counts and using various techniques to navigate between points.

March

Instruction of this workshop will consist of a classroom introduction to tracking skills and information. Instruction will illustrate how tracking skills are used during the search for a missing person. Course #26-026-03
$0.00
March 7 • May 30 (Cancelled) July 25 (Cancelled) • September 26
The Comparative Osteology for First Responders Workshop is an invaluable resource designed for search and rescue teams, law enforcement, fire/rescue personnel, and park rangers. It equips participants with the skills to distinguish between human and non-human remains, crucial for effective identification of human remains.

April

Welcome to the First Women’s Firefighter Weekend! Starting in the evening of Friday, May 2nd until early afternoon of Sunday, May 4th. Learn all about being a firefighter from our experienced trainers. This weekend is designed specifically to address the unique challenges and skills of female firefighters, featuring hands-on experience and specialized trainings. We aim to empower women by tailoring trainings to their needs.
$120.00
April 26
Join us for a fun and informational hike and learn about foraging wild plants. Our beautiful area is full of edible goodies! Join local expert Mitchell “Berry Man” Dech as he leads us through wetlands, woods, and fields to discover the various plants, trees, buds, and flowers that can be harvested. This event will be hands-on exploring to discover, discuss, and learn about edible plants in their habitats. Come prepared with comfortable shoes for moderate hiking, approximately 2 miles. Be prepared for all weather as we will be going rain or shine! Bring a cloth bag or basket as gathering and snacking as we hike is encouraged!
$20.00

May

The Swiftwater Rescue workshop teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and rescue techniques for paddlers in distress.

$250.00
8 hours / 2 days
This course is designed for professional river users like raft guides and safety kayakers with existing river knowledge and experience along with confident whitewater swimming skills. It builds off of the Rescue 3 WRT-PRO course. Registration will be done off-site through ACE.
$500.00
3 days

This course will allow for certifications up to Level 4 and is intended for experienced river guides and whitewater professionals looking to increase their education.

5 Days
May 16-17 (Cancelled)
The American Canoe Association (ACA) L5 Advanced Whitewater Rafting Instructor Certification Exam (ICE) – Paddle & Oar is for current ACA L4 instructors interested in becoming L5 Instructors while refining the skills required to instruct and efficiently paddle and/or row a raft on rivers with class I-IV rapids.
$400.00
Are you looking to develop your skills on the oars surrounded by women who want to do the same thing? Our Women on the Water 3-day Rowing Clinic is just what you need! Whether you are a brand new rafter looking for the basics or an experienced boater looking to advance your abilities, we are here for you.
$650.00
3 days
March 7 • May 30 (Cancelled) July 25 (Cancelled) • September 26
The Comparative Osteology for First Responders Workshop is an invaluable resource designed for search and rescue teams, law enforcement, fire/rescue personnel, and park rangers. It equips participants with the skills to distinguish between human and non-human remains, crucial for effective identification of human remains.

June

The WFA is the perfect course for the outdoor enthusiast or trip leader who wants a basic level of first aid training for short trips with family, friends, and outdoor groups. It also meets the ACA guidelines.

$280.00
16 hours
Are you looking to develop your skills on the oars? Our three-day rowing clinic is just what you need! Whether you are a brand new rafter looking for the basics or an experienced boater looking to advance your abilities, we are here for you.
$650.00
3 days
Join us for a fun and informational hike and learn about foraging wild plants. Our beautiful area is full of edible goodies! Join local expert Mitchell “Berry Man” Dech as he leads us through wetlands, woods, and fields to discover the various plants, trees, buds, and flowers that can be harvested. This event will be hands-on exploring to discover, discuss, and learn about edible plants in their habitats. Come prepared with comfortable shoes for moderate hiking, approximately 2 miles. Be prepared for all weather as we will be going rain or shine! Bring a cloth bag or basket as gathering and snacking as we hike is encouraged!
$20.00
Are you looking to develop your skills on the oars surrounded by women who want to do the same thing? Our Women on the Water 3-day Rowing Clinic is just what you need! Whether you are a brand new rafter looking for the basics or an experienced boater looking to advance your abilities, we are here for you.
$650.00
3 days

July

This 16-hour course exposes first responders, state/federal agencies, and attorneys to the principles and practical techniques for securing the scene(s) associated with a missing person mission. This includes documentation, preservation strategies, search team leadership, and how SAR personnel can become a benefit and not a hindrance to law enforcement. Students will participate in both classroom and indoor/outdoor exercises based on real search missions.  
2 Days  
March 7 • May 30 (Cancelled) July 25 (Cancelled) • September 26
The Comparative Osteology for First Responders Workshop is an invaluable resource designed for search and rescue teams, law enforcement, fire/rescue personnel, and park rangers. It equips participants with the skills to distinguish between human and non-human remains, crucial for effective identification of human remains.
Join us for a fun and informational hike and learn about foraging wild plants. Our beautiful area is full of edible goodies! Join local expert Mitchell “Berry Man” Dech as he leads us through wetlands, woods, and fields to discover the various plants, trees, buds, and flowers that can be harvested. This event will be hands-on exploring to discover, discuss, and learn about edible plants in their habitats. Come prepared with comfortable shoes for moderate hiking, approximately 2 miles. Be prepared for all weather as we will be going rain or shine! Bring a cloth bag or basket as gathering and snacking as we hike is encouraged!
$20.00

August

Are you looking to develop your skills on the oars surrounded by women who want to do the same thing? Our Women on the Water 3-day Rowing Clinic is just what you need! Whether you are a brand new rafter looking for the basics or an experienced boater looking to advance your abilities, we are here for you.
$650.00
3 days

September

Sept 15-16, 2026
“In a partnership with Worldwide Women of Whitewater, we are excited to offer an all womens swiftwater rescue course! The course teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and rescue techniques for paddlers in distress.
Join us for a fun and informational hike and learn about foraging wild plants. Our beautiful area is full of edible goodies! Join local expert Mitchell “Berry Man” Dech as he leads us through wetlands, woods, and fields to discover the various plants, trees, buds, and flowers that can be harvested. This event will be hands-on exploring to discover, discuss, and learn about edible plants in their habitats. Come prepared with comfortable shoes for moderate hiking, approximately 2 miles. Be prepared for all weather as we will be going rain or shine! Bring a cloth bag or basket as gathering and snacking as we hike is encouraged!
$20.00
March 7 • May 30 (Cancelled) July 25 (Cancelled) • September 26
The Comparative Osteology for First Responders Workshop is an invaluable resource designed for search and rescue teams, law enforcement, fire/rescue personnel, and park rangers. It equips participants with the skills to distinguish between human and non-human remains, crucial for effective identification of human remains.

October

There are not any courses available for October. Return to this page for updated course information.

November

Join us for our second year of the Women of Rescue Conference! Our Conference features inspirational speeches and hands-on trainings with the goal of building a community of support and shared interests.
$60.00

December

There are not any courses available for December. Return to this page for updated course information.

Scheduled Upon Request

Canceled
Scheduled Upon Request
The Top Rope Guide Course (TRG) is designed as a introductory level Top Rope rock climbing guide training program. No lead climbing is conducted during the TRG. This course provides the essential foundational guide skills needed to become a rock climbing guide while presenting rigorous practical top rope guiding and instructing skill paradigms.
$520.00
3 days
Scheduled Upon Request
Are you looking to develop your skills as a paddle guide or on the oars? Our Private Rafting Clinics are just what you need! The itinerary is adjustable so we can meet you where you’re at in your rafting progression.
Scheduled Upon Request

The WFA is the perfect course for the outdoor enthusiast or trip leader who wants a basic level of first aid training for short trips with family, friends, and outdoor groups. It also meets the ACA guidelines.

$280.00
16 hours
Scheduled Upon Request
Are you looking to develop your skills on the oars? Our three-day rowing clinic is just what you need! Whether you are a brand new rafter looking for the basics or an experienced boater looking to advance your abilities, we are here for you.
$650.00
3 days
Scheduled Upon Request

The WFR is the perfect course for anyone working in a position of leadership in an outdoor setting or for individuals who want a high level of wilderness medical training for extended personal backcountry trips or expeditions.

$600.00
72+ hours

JANUARY

Any two days, excluding Saturdays
Are you looking to develop your skills as a paddle guide or on the oars? Our two-day rafting clinic is just what you need! The itinerary is adjustable so we can meet you where you’re at in your rafting progression. $400/day to open the clinic, $50 for each additional person up to 4 total students

The Swiftwater Rescue workshop teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and rescue techniques for paddlers in distress.

$250.00
8 hours / 2 days

February

Any two days, excluding Saturdays
Are you looking to develop your skills as a paddle guide or on the oars? Our two-day rafting clinic is just what you need! The itinerary is adjustable so we can meet you where you’re at in your rafting progression. $400/day to open the clinic, $50 for each additional person up to 4 total students

The Swiftwater Rescue workshop teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and rescue techniques for paddlers in distress.

$250.00
8 hours / 2 days

March

Any two days, excluding Saturdays
Are you looking to develop your skills as a paddle guide or on the oars? Our two-day rafting clinic is just what you need! The itinerary is adjustable so we can meet you where you’re at in your rafting progression. $400/day to open the clinic, $50 for each additional person up to 4 total students
The course is designed specifically to provide students who will find themselves driving their UTV/SXS vehicle in remote or scenic areas with limited support conducting search and rescue operations. Target audiences: Firefighters, technical and wilderness rescue teams, ambulance drivers, adventure tourism guides. *Redirects to PST site for registration, must be a First Responder with Pstachio account: Course ID: 25-516-03 WVPST Charleston
The Comparative Osteology for First Responders Workshop is an invaluable resource designed for search and rescue teams, law enforcement, fire/rescue personnel, and park rangers. It equips participants with the skills to distinguish between human and non-human remains, crucial for effective identification of human remains.*Redirects to PST site for registration, must be a First Responder with Pstachio account: Course ID: 25-515-03 WVPST Charleston

The Swiftwater Rescue workshop teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and rescue techniques for paddlers in distress.

$250.00
8 hours / 2 days

April

Any two days, excluding Saturdays
Are you looking to develop your skills as a paddle guide or on the oars? Our two-day rafting clinic is just what you need! The itinerary is adjustable so we can meet you where you’re at in your rafting progression. $400/day to open the clinic, $50 for each additional person up to 4 total students

The Swiftwater Rescue workshop teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and rescue techniques for paddlers in distress.

$250.00
8 hours / 2 days

May

Any two days, excluding Saturdays
Are you looking to develop your skills as a paddle guide or on the oars? Our two-day rafting clinic is just what you need! The itinerary is adjustable so we can meet you where you’re at in your rafting progression. $400/day to open the clinic, $50 for each additional person up to 4 total students
Welcome to the First Women’s Firefighter Weekend! Starting in the evening of Friday, May 2nd until early afternoon of Sunday, May 4th. Learn all about being a firefighter from our experienced trainers. This weekend is designed specifically to address the unique challenges and skills of female firefighters, featuring hands-on experience and specialized trainings. We aim to empower women by tailoring trainings to their needs.
$100.00

The Swiftwater Rescue workshop teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and rescue techniques for paddlers in distress.

$250.00
8 hours / 2 days
Increase your skills with the raft, learn how to read and navigate rapids, water hydraulics, how to rig and secure your boat, and how to conduct a swiftwater rescue should one or more of your companions – or yourself – fall out of the boat. 
$650.00
 5 days
This course is designed for professional river users like raft guides and safety kayakers with existing river knowledge and experience along with confident whitewater swimming skills.
$350.00
3 days

This course will allow for certifications up to Level 4 and is intended for experienced river guides and whitewater professionals looking to increase their education.

3 Days
Sunday May 18th
Join us for a fun and informational hike and learn about foraging wild plants. Our beautiful area is full of edible goodies! Join local expert Mitchell “Berry Man” Dech as he leads us through wetlands, woods, and fields to discover the various plants, trees, buds, and flowers that can be harvested. This event will be hands-on exploring to discover, discuss, and learn about edible plants in their habitats. Come prepared with comfortable shoes for moderate hiking, approximately 2 miles. Be prepared for all weather as we will be going rain or shine! Bring a cloth bag or basket as gathering and snacking as we hike is encouraged!
$20.00
This will take you to ACE Adventure Resort to register.
2 Days
Instructor candidates will teach IRF Guide & Trip Leader skills as well as facilitate assessments.
$1,050.00
2 Days

The Swiftwater Rescue workshop teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and rescue techniques for paddlers in distress.

$250.00
8 hours / 2 days

June

Any two days, excluding Saturdays
Are you looking to develop your skills as a paddle guide or on the oars? Our two-day rafting clinic is just what you need! The itinerary is adjustable so we can meet you where you’re at in your rafting progression. $400/day to open the clinic, $50 for each additional person up to 4 total students

The WFA is the perfect course for the outdoor enthusiast or trip leader who wants a basic level of first aid training for short trips with family, friends, and outdoor groups. It also meets the ACA guidelines.

$250.00
16 hours

The Swiftwater Rescue workshop teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and rescue techniques for paddlers in distress.

$250.00
8 hours / 2 days

July

Any two days, excluding Saturdays
Are you looking to develop your skills as a paddle guide or on the oars? Our two-day rafting clinic is just what you need! The itinerary is adjustable so we can meet you where you’re at in your rafting progression. $400/day to open the clinic, $50 for each additional person up to 4 total students

The Swiftwater Rescue workshop teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and rescue techniques for paddlers in distress.

$250.00
8 hours / 2 days

August

Any two days, excluding Saturdays
Are you looking to develop your skills as a paddle guide or on the oars? Our two-day rafting clinic is just what you need! The itinerary is adjustable so we can meet you where you’re at in your rafting progression. $400/day to open the clinic, $50 for each additional person up to 4 total students
Saturday August 16th
Join us for a fun and informational hike and learn about foraging wild plants. Our beautiful area is full of edible goodies! Join local expert Mitchell “Berry Man” Dech as he leads us through wetlands, woods, and fields to discover the various plants, trees, buds, and flowers that can be harvested. This event will be hands-on exploring to discover, discuss, and learn about edible plants in their habitats. Come prepared with comfortable shoes for moderate hiking, approximately 2 miles. Be prepared for all weather as we will be going rain or shine! Bring a cloth bag or basket as gathering and snacking as we hike is encouraged!
$20.00

The Swiftwater Rescue workshop teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and rescue techniques for paddlers in distress.

$250.00
8 hours / 2 days

Join Instructor Trainer Candidate Kevin Terrell for these ACA Instructor Certification courses.

$900.00
6 Days

Join Instructor Trainer Candidate Kevin Terrell and Instructor Trainer Educator Elisha McArthur for these ACA Instructor Certification courses.

$400.00
N/A
August 28-29, 2025

The WFA is the perfect course for the outdoor enthusiast or trip leader who wants a basic level of first aid training for short trips with family, friends, and outdoor groups. It also meets the ACA guidelines.

$250.00
16 hours

September

Any two days, excluding Saturdays
Are you looking to develop your skills as a paddle guide or on the oars? Our two-day rafting clinic is just what you need! The itinerary is adjustable so we can meet you where you’re at in your rafting progression. $400/day to open the clinic, $50 for each additional person up to 4 total students
Instruction of this workshop will consist of a classroom introduction to tracking skills and information. Instruction will illustrate how tracking skills are used during the search for a missing person.
Course #26-026-03
$0.00
Instructor candidates will teach IRF Guide & Trip Leader skills as well as facilitate assessments.
$1,050.00
2 Days

The Swiftwater Rescue workshop teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and rescue techniques for paddlers in distress.

$250.00
8 hours / 2 days

October

Any two days, excluding Saturdays
Are you looking to develop your skills as a paddle guide or on the oars? Our two-day rafting clinic is just what you need! The itinerary is adjustable so we can meet you where you’re at in your rafting progression. $400/day to open the clinic, $50 for each additional person up to 4 total students

The WFR is the perfect course for anyone working in a position of leadership in an outdoor setting or for individuals who want a high level of wilderness medical training for extended personal backcountry trips or expeditions.

$600.00
72+ hours

The Swiftwater Rescue workshop teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and rescue techniques for paddlers in distress.

$250.00
8 hours / 2 days

November

Any two days, excluding Saturdays
Are you looking to develop your skills as a paddle guide or on the oars? Our two-day rafting clinic is just what you need! The itinerary is adjustable so we can meet you where you’re at in your rafting progression. $400/day to open the clinic, $50 for each additional person up to 4 total students
Friday, November 14th, 2025
The Emergency Care Safety Institute (ECSI) Pet First-Aid and Disaster Responder Course is designed to help pet owners provide temporary, urgent care to pets until they can reach a veterinary or emergency clinic.
$39.00
4 hours
Sunday, November 16, 2025

AMKUS Rescue systems has put together a Vehicle Extrication Seminar that will combine classroom with some hands-on practice with their tools!

$20.00
8 hours

The Swiftwater Rescue workshop teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and rescue techniques for paddlers in distress.

$250.00
8 hours / 2 days

December

Any two days, excluding Saturdays
Are you looking to develop your skills as a paddle guide or on the oars? Our two-day rafting clinic is just what you need! The itinerary is adjustable so we can meet you where you’re at in your rafting progression. $400/day to open the clinic, $50 for each additional person up to 4 total students

The Swiftwater Rescue workshop teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and rescue techniques for paddlers in distress.

$250.00
8 hours / 2 days