There are many reasons folks seek to further advance their skills in paddlesports. The American Canoe Association (ACA) has many instructors to assist the community who which to pursue advancement. But, how does this all work, and what if I wish to become an instructor myself?

1)Types of Instructors:

Instructor- Has the ability to create and execute training sessions for the general public. These sessions are based on the individual's awarded type and level of certification. The instructor can not teach a specialty beyond their abilities. *An example of this would be a level three certified sea kayaker (CK3) can not teach a canoe session*

Instructor Trainer (IT)- Has the same abilities of an Instructor, however may also have the ability to award the title of 'Instructor' to the general public.

Instructor Trainer Educator (ITE)- Has the same abilities as an IT, plus is able to award the title of 'IT' to Instructors.

2)Level of Instructors:

These are ranked from 1 to 5 (highest)

3)Understanding the types of education provided:

Skill sessions- These are involved with usually classroom and/or on-water activities. The participants range from beginner to advanced. These are structured in a manner which follows ACA guidelines and best practices. The length of time for these are determined by the Lead instructor - which could be hours or days long.

Assessments-Provided to individuals who have a skillset which they wish to be tested and evaluated by an Instructor. The Instructor's certified level must be of equal or lesser level of the participant's desired assessment. These 'skill assessments' can be used in the process of becoming an instructor, or provide a personal baseline of one's abilities and performance.

Instructor pathway- If a participant wishes to become an instructor, they may or may not be required to take a skills assessment prior to the desired certification. There are two pathways one may take:

• The first is called an Instructor Certification Workshop ICW. This is usually a four to 5 day event with a combined training and certification exam.

• The second is called Instructor Development Workshop (IDW) and Instructor Certification Exam (ICE). This is a two part process and the two are separated by either weeks or months apart. This provides time for the participant to learn, practice and understand what the IT or ITE is looking for in an Instructor Candidate prior to the final exam.

4)Types of certifications for Instructors:

• Introduction to Paddling (flat water)

• Costal Kayaking

• River Kayaking (white water)

• Stand up Paddleboard

• Canoeing

• Rafting

• Safety & Rescue (white water)

• Packrafting

• Surf Kayaking

• Surfski

5)With most of these certifications, Instructors can also become endorsed in specialized fields. These would include:

• Adaptive Paddling

• Advanced Communication

• SUP Yoga

• Kayak Rolling (Available for Level 2 and 3 Instructors)

• Coastal Kayaking Traditional Skills

• River Kayaking Day Trip Leading

• River Kayak Fishing

• River Kayak Hand Paddling

• Coastal Kayaking Trip Leading (Level 2)

• Coastal Kayaking Trip Leading (Level 3)

• Coastal Kayaking Trip Leading (Level 4)

• River Canoe Day Trip Leading

• Canoe Rolling

• Camping: River Canoe, Touring Canoe, River Kayak, Coastal Kayak

• Paddlesports Safety Facilitator (PSF)

With that said, there are numerous Instructors which are available for your advancement in the sport. The ACA has a search tool to help you find one in your area.