Raft Guide School
Become a professional raft guide at the largest man-made whitewater facility in the world. From the classroom to the river, our top-notch instructors teach all of the necessary skills expected of a professional raft guide – no prior experience is necessary.
The U.S. National Whitewater Center (USNWC) is seeking full and part-time, seasonal Raft Guides. Top graduates of Guide School will be given the opportunity to advance into the USNWC’s qualifying check-out process. Upon qualification, a fun, physical, and customer-interactive job awaits.
Attending guide school does not guarantee a job at the USNWC. For more information, please see the Raft Guide School FAQ.
Course Information:
- Duration: 5 days
- Hours: 9:00am-6:00pm (Orientation hours are listed in conjunction with course dates)
- Price: $175
Tuition reimbursement is available for Guide School graduates who are hired by the USNWC and complete the season in good standing with the USNWC Management.
Prerequisites:
- You must be at least 18 years of age or 17 and a graduating senior in high school
- Adequate level of physical fitness, swimming capability, and comfort in and around moving water
Please note, a current First Aid, CPR & AED Certification is not a prerequisite for Guide School, but is required for active employment – courses are offered by the USNWC.
Registration:
Guide School has a 1 to 6 instructor to student ratio, ensuring the quality of instruction needed to succeed as a professional raft guide. There are limited spaces available, so be sure to sign up early to secure a spot.
Please use the links below to register online or call Guest Services at 704.391.3900.
2018 Guide School:
FULL WEEK GUIDE SCHOOL
Orientations are scheduled on Sunday evenings prior to the beginning of each course from 6:00pm-8:00pm. The course will last one full week – Monday through Friday.
Orientation Sunday 7/22; Course Monday 7/23 – Friday 7/27