Although certification is not a national requirement for snowboarding instructors, it carries many perks. Many mountain resorts prefer to hire certified instructors or offer better pay to those who are certified. Certification also ensures that you're using the latest safety standards and teaching methods, providing a better experience for your students and building your reputation more quickly.
Governing Body
In the United States, snowboarding instructors are certified by the American Association of Snowboard Instructors, or AASI. The AASI was founded in 1997 by the Professional Ski Instructors of America, or PSIA, which saw the need for a similar affiliate organization to manage snowboarding as a separate sport. Today, the organization operates as a single entity with over 30,000 members. Although the organization is geographically divided into nine independently operating divisions, certification is valid nationwide.
Certification Levels
As soon as you register for membership with the AASI, you can become a registered instructor by completing a training class at the divisional level. Because each division has its own requirements, registered level certification does not transfer nationally. There are three nationally recognized levels of snowboarding instructor certification. Level 1 instructors are qualified to teach beginning snowboarders. Level 2 certification allows you to teach intermediate level boarders. Level 3 certification, sometimes referred to as "full" certification, qualifies instructors to teach any level of snowboarding class. For each level of certification, you must fully meet the criteria set out by the AASI. Each division sets its own training and exam procedures within the AASI's guidelines, which include both written and on-snow components.
Adaptive Certification
Adaptive certification is an optional addition to standard certification. Instructors who are certified in adaptive snowboarding are qualified to teach boarders with disabilities. The AASI recognizes four separate disability classifications: blindness and low vision, cognitive disabilities, physical diagnoses, and disabilities that prevent standing on a snowboard. At Level 1, you may specialize in just one disability classification, but by Level 2 you're expected to show competency in all classifications. You must also meet all standard requirements for your level of certification.
Maintaining Certification
Because the sport of snowboarding is constantly evolving, instructors are expected to stay abreast of the latest developments. Continuing education requirements ensure that you remain up to date. At Level 1, you're expected to complete six credits every two years. At Level 2 and Level 3, you must complete 12 credits every two years. If you're unable to meet your continuing education requirements, you may be eligible for a one-year waiver. If you're dropped from the rolls, you may petition for reinstatement. Contact your local division for more information. Procedures and related fees vary.
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