The process of becoming a CWI Provider has been fully revised. Please check out this revamped page to learn about the path to becoming a CWI Provider.
Climbing Wall Instructor (CWI) Providers are a vital component of the AMGA. Based throughout the country, CWI Providers teach AMGA CWI Programs.
As representatives of the AMGA and providers of the CWI curriculum – we look for dedicated educators with comprehensive teaching and/or mentoring experience that are committed to helping students succeed. In addition to climbing and technical expertise, being able to articulate written and verbal feedback is an essential skill for those interested in becoming a Provider. We are also seeking individuals who are committed to creating inclusive and supportive learning environments for all aspiring climbing instructors.
The process of becoming a Provider is a partnership between the applicant and the AMGA—the training program is taught and facilitated by the AMGA.
Please visit the FAQ for more information.
Check out the Assistant Provider Bridge Program for more information and options for your advancement toward Provider status.
Minimum training level required:
Minimum teaching and instructing experience:
Able to top rope 5.9 and onsight lead 5.8 sport, on artificial surfaces, at the time of the training course.Is capable of giving a lead demonstration with conscious movement that inspires confidence and is worthy of emulation.
Current AMGA Member
21 years of age or older
In order for your application to be considered please submit the following items prior to the application deadline.
Email application packet, in a google drive folder, to the Climbing Instructor Program Manager, Andrew Megas-Russell [email protected] and pay the application fee prior to the application deadline.
1. Essay Questions:
Answer 5 out of the 6, limit 250-500 words per question
2. Professional resume
3. Indoor or manufactured climbing wall instruction and teaching resume - Applicants must use the CWI Resume-Template provided by the AMGA
a. Document (a minimum) of 25 classes or clinics - which equates to between 50-100 hours
b. This will include the audience: youth group, adult group, climbing team members, school group, or private individuals
c. As well as the topic of your class or clinic: lead climbing, lead belaying top rope belaying, bouldering technique, climbing movement, or staff training
d. Experience in group management, experiential education, and staff training is preferred
4. Example Lesson Plan
• Choose a CWI curriculum session from the CWI Program Manual
• Refer to the lesson plan section and use the template on pages 20-22 in the CWI Program Manual
• You may be expected to teach this session during the program
5. Ensure your myAMGA account information is up to date:
• Update your AMGA Health Statement including emergency contact and signature date
• Update your Basic Information including apparel sizes and Public Profile information including current contact information
6. $65 non-refundable application fee - Email your application to [email protected] and you will receive an online payment link in return.
Please do not submit AMGA course evaluations or certifications with the application. These may be reviewed during the application process. You do not need to include these.
Enrollment decisions are based on a number of factors including the following:
Best Qualified applicants considerably exceed the minimum prerequisites
Well Qualified applicants exceed the minimum prerequisites
Qualified applicants meet the minimum prerequisites
Effective January 1, 2023 AMGA will no longer require Mountain Guide Program students, Provider Training Program students, participants, or employees to be vaccinated for COVID-19.
This policy change is made on advice from the AMGA Medical Advisor and recognizes the evolving nature of the COVID-19 Pandemic. The AMGA’s COVID-19 Operating Plan has been updated. Field practices and program expectations described in the Operating Plan are still in place and we will continue to prioritize reducing COVID-19 transmission on AMGA programs.
The 5 day CWI Provider Training Program is a combination of instruction, coaching, debriefing, and assessment. There are 2.5-days of instruction and course work and a 2.5-day assessment.
The Course portion of the program includes:
Principle-based learning routed in giving candidates strategies for teaching curriculum along with assessment strategies.
The Exam portion of the program includes:
Critical review of course curriculum session delivery as would be replicated on a CWI Program
Assessment scenarios and or real client interactions where candidates will need to evaluate and deliver written or verbal feedback
• Do I need first aid or CPR training to apply?
You must hold the level of medical training that matches the requirement of the climbing gym or facility that will be hosting the AMGA CWI courses that you intend to provide.
• The AMGA does not reimburse for any travel, food, lodging or associated costs to become a provider.
• Once your application is accepted you will receive more information.
• If you have additional questions after referring to this entire page, please contact Andrew [email protected]
Application Period Opens: November 4th, 2022
Application Period Closes: January 9th, 2023
Notification Deadline: February 17th, 2023
CWI Provider Training Course and Assessment (5 days):
CWI Assistant Provider Bridge Program (3 days):