Becoming an AMGA SPI Provider
Update – March 23rd, 2022
AMGA has been focusing on revamping the process of becoming a Provider and this is taking longer than originally anticipated. While the updates and final changes are being considered, we want to ensure we have “crossed our t’s and dotted our i’s” before announcing the updated process and future training course dates. We apologize for the delay and ask for your patience as we finalize these important details.
Please stay tuned as we hope to have an update announced later in the spring.
We will update this page once these changes are in place and program dates are finalized.
Single Pitch Instructor (SPI) Providers are a vital component of the AMGA. Based throughout the country, SPI Providers teach AMGA SPI courses and facilitate assessments.
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As representatives of the AMGA and providers of the SPI 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 learning environments for all aspiring climbing instructors. The process of becoming an SPI Provider is outlined below.
Program Information
Prerequisites:
SPI Provider Prerequisites:
1. Current AMGA Member
2. Current CPR Certification
3. Current Wilderness First Responder (WFR) Certification or higher that meets the Minimum Guidelines and Scope of Practice for a WFR.
4. Minimum training level required:
a. Certified AMGA Rock Guide or AMGA Multi Pitch Instructor
i. AMGA Certified Rock Instructors will be accepted until 20235. Minimum 150 days teaching and instructing
a. 50 of these days must be teaching or instructing rock climbing6. Able to onsight lead 5.9 traditional climbs at the time of the training course and is capable of giving a lead demonstration with movement that inspires confidence and is worthy of emulation.
How to Apply: *updated May 13th, 2021
Application Instructions:
In order for your application to be considered please submit the following items prior to the application deadline:
1. Cover letter - specifically express:
• Why you want to become a provider
• What will make you an effective provider
• Breadth and depth of teaching/instructing experience2. Professional resume - specifically express:
• Number of days instructing at each job
• Number of days guiding at each job3. Climbing instruction and teaching resume - Applicants must use the resume-template provided by the AMGA
• Document 10 - 5.9 (or harder) traditional climbs within the past year
• Document minimum 50 days of rock climbing instruction
• Optional - submit an additional log depicting days of experience beyond those listed in the template4. Example Lesson Plan *NEW*
• Any topic is okay - can be climbing related or some other topic
• Any format is okay - word doc or pdf, powerpoint or google slides etc.
• You will not be asked to deliver the lesson or presentation, simply to supply an example5. $65 non-refundable application fee - To pay over the phone, please call Andrew, 303.578.3655 or mail check to AMGA Attn: CIP Manager 4720 Walnut Street Suite 200, Boulder, CO 80301
Please submit these four documents via email to the Climbing Instructor Program Manager, Andrew Megas-Russell [email protected] and pay the application fee prior to the application deadline.
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.
Application Review:
Application Review:
Enrollment decisions are based on a number of factors including the following:
- Application is received by the application deadline
- Cover letter and resume completeness and strength
- Teaching and instructing experience
- Previous wait list status
Best Qualified applicants considerably exceed the minimum prerequisites
Well Qualified applicants exceed the minimum prerequisites
Qualified applicants meet the minimum prerequisites
Tuition Information:
Tuition Information:
- Training Course Tuition is $335
- Participants are responsible for other costs associated with the training including but not limited to food, travel and lodging.
- To accept and hold your space on a program, full tuition is due within two weeks of acceptance.
- Failure to pay your tuition will result in being dropped from the program.
- Refunds will be issued up until 4-weeks prior to the start of the program. Once the 4-week mark passes, NO refunds will be issued.
- There is no transfer option. If you drop from your training course you will need to reapply. The AMGA will waive your application fee one time.
- If the AMGA cancels a training, all payments will be refunded in full. This applies to tuition only - participants are responsible for their own travel, lodging, food, and other expenses.
- Trip Cancellation Insurance is recommended to protect your tuition investment and cover other expenses in the event of injury or other unforeseen event resulting in you needing to drop.
- The AMGA Accredited Business discount does not apply to the provider training course and is only available toward Mountain Guide Program tuition.
Additional Information:
Additional Information:
• How long does it take to become a provider?
There is no set time, but for many providers this is a multi year process.• Can I observe a program, in preparation to becoming a provider, prior to submitting an application?
No. The AMGA requires that you submit an application, gain acceptance as a Provider in Training and then observe programs.• The AMGA does not reimburse for any travel, food, lodging or associated costs to become a provider.
• SPI Providers are required to be in compliance with AMGA Scope of Practice.
• 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]
SPI Provider Schedule
- SPI Provider Training Course 2022 dates TBD
- Application Period closed for 2022 – please stand by for an announcement
Watch the webinar on Becoming a Provider:
This hour long webinar covers the role of the SPI Provider, the prerequisites to apply, how to apply, the flow chart and process of becoming a provider as well as a live Q & A.
