2018 | First Affinity Program: Women’s SPI Course
In partnership with Brown Girls Climb and Flash Foxy, the AMGA hosted our first affinity program at Red Rock Canyon, which opened the doors for all future affinity programs.
2019 | First Mountain Guide Program: Ascent ASC & Women’s RGC
In partnership with Eddie Bauer and The North Face, we hosted our first affinity Mountain Guide Programs. The Ascent ASC was the first program offered for intersecting identities of underrepresented guides.
2020 | First LGBTQIA2S+ SPI Course
While navigating the start of the pandemic, we successfully launched our first queer focused program with the support of Mountain Hardwear and consultant Lila Leatherman.
2021 | First BIPOC SPI Course
The first program for Black, Indigenous, People of Color that hosted two sections in Mt. Erie, WA, and Brevard, NC thanks to the support of Black Diamond and Climbers of Color for the PNW course.
Key Barriers
Mentorship
Access to mentorship, preparation, and prerequisites for AMGA courses is limited among historically underrepresented communities. There is a need for more mentorship and access to resources to complete prerequisite trainings such as wilderness medicine and avalanche education.
Accessibility
Historically, the AMGA had not provided any scholarships for Climbing Instructor Programs and identity-based scholarships. Once students can meet the prereqs for courses, financial barriers can prevent folks from taking courses including program fees, travel, housing, gear, and other expenses.
Continued Education
Once our students complete their affinity courses, they are seeking opportunities to continue with their education and programs. Each student will have different needs including access to continued mentorship, post-course resources, and funding for advanced courses and/or assessments.
Needs
Career Viability
Post-courses, our participants require dedicated support to continue with their career path including long-term mentorship, job networking, and resources with the goal of creating a sustainable career in guiding for historically marginalized communities.
Sustainability
Creating multiple-year programs and offerings to provide a structure for participants to continue with their career goals. This would include a variety of disciplines and a scaffolded approach to advanced programs with the ultimate goal of certifications.
Outreach and Education
Expanding the outreach to include communities who would not traditionally have access to these programs and expanding the potential for guiding as a career. Creating pre-course resources and educational events to share and provide insight into AMGA programs, certification track, and career opportunities.