Requirements For Entry

• Personal Skiing Standard - you must demonstrate smoothly linked turns in all terrain, appropriate adjustment of style and technique to snow conditions, and stable, smooth, turns at all times in ungroomed, backcountry snow. It is strongly recommended that candidates complete a Level 2 ski instructor course from the Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance before applying. See Ski Standard video
• Experience - candidates are chosen from those applicants who can demonstrate that they have spent at least three years developing the hazard evaluation skills, leadership skills, and are comfortable in a winter environment. These applicants have communication skills, preferably teaching skills, and are motivated to accept the responsibility of being a professional ski guide.
• Avalanche Course - the CAA level 1 plus experience, is a minimum prerequisite for the training level of the Assistant Ski Guide Program. Experience shows those candidates who enter with the CAA Level 2 have an easier time with the decision making and hazard evaluation tasks.
• Advanced Wilderness First Aid Course with a minimum 80 hours is required. Courses from this partial list of providers have proven adequate in the past. Contact the ACMG if you are uncertain about other programs.
• Expectation - on the courses, you must be capable of guiding clients on skis showing efficient and confident movement while linking appropriate turns in variable backcountry snow. You must show that you are capable of guiding clients in alpine ski mountaineering terrain including glaciers, snow and ice, and simple short-roping terrain.

The above is an absolute minimum. To demonstrate these skills in an exam setting requires a great deal of confidence, ability and fitness. Most candidates enter the program with a much higher personal standard than the minimum required.