by Lisa Rabideau | Dec 16, 2023 | Program News
Do you want to be an instructor, or know someone else who does? We in the Eastern Division are always looking for good instructors. The process is not difficult but can seem confusing to many patrollers. Becoming an instructor consists of taking the Instructor Development Course (see below) and mentoring with a qualified instructor in the discipline you want to teach. The disciplines include Outdoor Emergency Care, Outdoor Emergency Transportation, Avalanche, Mountain Travel & Rescue, Bike Patrol, and even Instructor Development itself. The mentoring phase is a very important part of the process of becoming an instructor. You will learn valuable tips and techniques for making your lessons impactful and successful.
The Instructor Development Course consists of 2 parts: the pre-requisite online Instructor Development eCourse and a “Face to Face” skills session to demonstrate what was learned in the “eCourse.” The online eCourse is available in our very own Center for Learning. This ID eCourse can be taken at any time by any patroller. Registering for the course is very similar to registering for the online portion of the OEC refresher in the Center for Learning. Just search the “Browse Catalog” for Instructor Development or click on the Instructor Development Category on the left of the page. There is no cost, and it can be taken at your own speed.
When you are ready, the second part of the ID course is the in-person “Face-to-Face” or Skills Session. Many of these classes are offered at the Region or Division level in an in-person format. Sometimes, a student can use a virtual option for the Skills Session. This may be due to geographic challenges or the lack of availability of an in-person class nearby.
To register, go to the Center for Learning and search for 2023 in the Search bar. Click on “Choose Session” to open available classes. If you know where the class will be held, you can search by that location. Make sure you choose the correct session.
One new option to complete the Skills Session is a monthly offering given by the National Instructor Development Committee. This virtual session is offered monthly via the Zoom platform, usually on a Tuesday (and Wednesday if needed). There is a maximum of 10 people per class, but they can be from any Division. This is intended for patrollers who have difficulty accessing an in-person option in their area. If you are interested in this class or have any questions, send an email to id@nspserves.org
Once you have completed both parts of the ID course, you will either be assigned or choose a mentor. Check with your Patrol or Region ID Advisor to discover the process for mentor assignment in your Region. Work with your mentor to plan and deliver lessons, obtain feedback, and revise your lesson plan. The final step is to be observed being taught by an instructor trainer. Your mentor, the IT, and you will sign and complete the Instructor Application and Mentoring Form, which is then sent to the Division Supervisor. Sometimes it may be routed through the Region Advisor to the Supervisor.
If you have any questions about this process, please contact your Patrol or Region Advisor. If you are unsure who to contact, you can go to the Eastern Division website and choose your Region to find the ID Advisor, or you can contact me directly at Lisa Rabideau
by Orest Ohar, OET Steering Committee | Nov 2, 2023 | Program News
The 2024 Patroller School schedule and many other training events have been posted on the Eastern Division’s EVENT website. Please use it to find division-based educational events. The four programs that actively utilize Patroller School are:
Outdoor Emergency Transportation offers training weekend events
Avalanche Program offers online and weekend courses
Mountain Travel & Rescue offers a variety of online and weekend courses
Patroller Stress Preparedness offers a self-paced online course for individuals
Twenty years ago, the concept of offering high-level training opportunities taught by Division staff Instructors originated with Outdoor Emergency Transportation (OET). OET was initially known as the “ski and toboggan” program. It created the first Patroller School at Windham Resort in Southern NY as an opportunity for NSP members patrolling at smaller mountains to train on the big slopes with moguls. The event became popular and became a socializing weekend, as Patrollers traveled from all around the division to gather for a common training purpose. Soon, the concept spread to every corner of the Division and today includes Women’s events, snowboard training, telemark skiing, etc.
Avalanche courses follow a high-level curriculum because they deliver certification that some patrollers require as part of their patrolling profession. The course is quite long, with an online study component and a weekend of two and a half days traveling in avalanche terrain. Patroller School is an excellent place for members to shop when considering the type of avalanche certification they should invest in. NSP’s Avalanche Level Once is a little more involved than traditional “Companion Rescue Avalanche” certification because NSP includes a professional group rescue module.
Mountain Travel and Rescue, known as MTR for short, is NSP’s entry-level backcountry travel course. It covers winter ski camping from the perspective of navigation, sheltering in the mountains, staying warm, nutrition, trip planning, group leadership, organized search and rescue (SAR), etc. Completing the course gives members certification for joining SAR activities nationwide, known as ASTM F-2209 Land Searcher One certificate. Watch the MTR Events page to see courses added during late autumn and early spring. This is a great event to attend after the typical ski season concludes.
Eastern Division’s Stress Awareness Team has added a self-paced online course that individuals can sign up to experience. The team has been working on programs for preparing. Patrollers to better handle stress in both their rescue work as well as from the pressures of daily life. Developing individual techniques for handling the more challenging aspect of Patrolling has been found to alleviate the effects of stress. Learn to monitor yourself before, during, and after especially stressful situations. Learn how to recognize if the effects of stress are leading to an injury. Learn that you are not alone; there are Patrollers at your resort who can help; learn how to help yourself.
Visit Eastern Division’s EVENT website to look for educational opportunities by Googling PatrollerSchool.ORG
by Jonathan Wilson | Oct 30, 2023 | Division News, Program News
Jonathan Wilson, Certified SupervisorThe first article of the season for the Certified team is an opportunity for the newest members to thank all who have helped, influenced, and driven their hard work and determination. Certified has a three-year completion window, so hard work is mandatory, travel is necessary, and help is always appreciated.
Each year, I have the pleasure of presenting newly minted Certified members their pins and numbers. This takes place at the end of the annual exam at our banquet. This past season, the Certified team added two new members to our ranks: Kevin Hartka, #859, and Jessie Miller, #860.
Of note – Jessie Miller #860 is a legacy Certified member; her father is Dave Ronald #171. Unfortunately, Dave is no longer with us, but the Elk Mountain Certified team members presented Jessie with her father’s pin. In addition, Jessie Miller completed her Certified candidacy in one year. It has been 27 years since the team has had a member complete all components in one season.
Congratulations to both, and please go to the Program News section and take some time to read about their Certified Journey found at Kevin and Jessie.
by Kevin Hartka | Oct 30, 2023 | Program News, Spotlight Articles
Kevin Hartka celebrates with his familyIt had been five years since I first sat at a seat at the certified annual banquet dinner. Five years since I entered into the certified program, drawn to the group of passionate patrollers and their camaraderie, and this was my third and last test year.
It was a long road of hard studying, training, and stressful, sleepless nights, broken by two years of COVID cancelations that stole my wind and faded my memories of my first year such that my second felt much like my first. But this was it; it all came down to this last year. I had to make it happen.
Though I felt well prepared and anxious to complete the three modules I had left, the thought of going down that road again began to feel awfully daunting. I had made many phone calls, pestered all the managers of the different departments at my mountain with my questions, and spent much of the year immersed in studying my remaining topics. I felt like I did everything I could do with my time, knowledge, and resources.
After one of the worst sleepless nights at the test in my experience going through the program, stressing over things I thought I may have missed in the first of my last three interviews, I rose the next morning much more ambitious than expected, and I felt strong in my last two interviews.
It was done! Or was it? So the mind battle began, silencing my fears, trying not to stress and go over what I may or may not have missed, imagining, and mentally preparing to start the whole three years all over again. Focusing on the present, I relaxed into the last few days with nothing to do but help out with the rest of the weekend and enjoy my time with the group while I waited to see the results.
It had been five years, with a two-year COVID interruption, and I was sitting at a table at another banquet dinner. This time, my fiancé and 4-year-old daughter were there with me as we enjoyed a delicious meal provided by Killington. As the plates emptied and the drinks began to rise, Jon Wilson took the podium to give his thanks and recognition to all who helped put together a successful event. And then it happened…
“Peter Neefus, can you come up to the front, please? Katie Demers, Can you please come up to the front?”
I was flooded with a wave of emotions; my palms began to sweat, and my eyes began to moisten.
“I would like to welcome our newest member, number 859, Kevin Hartka….please come up to the front.”
Kevin getting pinned by his fiancéThe room broke out in cheering and applause as I rose and proceeded to the front of the room, where my family and friends waited with my certificate and number and adorned me with a shiny new certified pin. The moment was such a tsunami of emotions I’m not sure I can clearly replay the rest of the evening but I’m pretty sure I either got a hug or a handshake from everyone in the room and a big congratulations.
It has been two weeks now since that momentous day when I received my number, and I have had time to reflect and digest what has been a truly incredible experience! The program has shaped and carved me into a better patroller, and will continue to do so. And I couldn’t have done it without the support of the people around me. It is a true honor to be part of this incredible group of patrollers!
I would like to express my sincere appreciation and thanks to those who supported me through this program. First and foremost, I would like to thank NSP for all their incredible programs that have brought me to where I am. Second, I would like to thank our chair, Jon Wilson, for his inspirational leadership and kind friendship. Without a solid leader, where would we be?
A special thanks to my mentor and friend, Peter Neefus, for showing me the program and helping me in every capacity he could. The amount of time and effort Peter put into helping me and other candidates get through the program is unparalleled!
I would also like to thank my patrol leader, Sue Hallenbeck, for putting up with my distractions during my shifts while studying, my likely annoying, at times, questions, and my constant push to learn about patrol leadership and outdoor risk management.
Justin Guth for giving his time to talk on the phone and help me through my hardships. For his support from day one, both as a friend and a leader!
Steve Suomala for his great friendship and countless phone calls. Steve pointed me in all the right directions and talked me down when times were tough.
Steve Barnes
David Childs
Linda Helms
Bill Zink
Gregg Pulver
Kerry Brousseau
Jay Brousseau
Kevin Lawler
And the list goes on…
Last but certainly not least, I want to thank my fiancé and family for putting up with my absence through this time. It has been a long haul, and I could not have done it without their support.
Kevin Hartka
Catamount Ski Patrol
Certified #859
by Jessie Miller, Assstant Division OET Supervisor | Oct 30, 2023 | Program News, Spotlight Articles
Jessie MillerGrowing up in a patrol family, first on, last off is what we did. I first heard the phrase “train to be above the bar” as a child, listening to my dad’s conversations about ski and toboggan training. Later I heard it as a patroller preparing for my own Senior and Trainer Evaluator exams. As I considered the goal of becoming Certified, I knew the bar would be higher; I would need to train harder than ever to be above it. I also knew this would also be an emotional journey for me. Although my dad, Dave Ronald, Certified #171, has been gone for more than 20 years, his coaching and mentorship left a lasting impact on many patrollers; quite the legacy to follow.
I set out on a mission. There were spreadsheets, lists, and binders. My questions and curiosity were endless. Before the snow flew, I spent nine days working on my personal development as a patroller, and throughout the winter season, I spent 14 more. As I reflect on the season, these are the approaches that helped me most—and the lessons I will carry forth into all areas of my life.
Elk Mountain Certified 2023 (Left to right) Sarah Keating – 564, Mike Ksenich – 854, Matt Nebzydoski – 706, Bob Bluff – 497, Jessie Miller – 860, Ken Kelly – 587, Bill Jordan – 369, Lisa Kelly
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- Find a supportive and involved mentor— better yet, several.
- Be vulnerable enough to admit what you do not know and ask for help.
- Go forth with joyful entitlement, asking for what you need with the assumption that the universe is on your side. Then, if you don’t get what you need the first time around, ask again and be specific.
- Build your network — contact program chairs. Spend time with members. Collect knowledge and build relationships.
- Blaze in, ready to light it up! But remember, each time you go down in flames training, you are learning, growing, and building resiliency.
My heart has immense gratitude for everyone who supported me on this journey. First up is my partner, Sam, and our daughters, Claire and Stella. Sam supported endless conversations about patrolling, sharpened the skegs on my sled (and all the skis), manned the girls’ races, and cheered me on.
Women of Certified 2023 (Left to right) Inese Jardine – 761, Sharon Friedel – 606, Sarah Keating – 564, Jessie Miller – 860, Linda Helms – 647, Jenn Laitala, – 765 Denise Kaus, – 833, Mary Bozack – 26Thank you to my mom, Cheryl Ronald, and my grandmother, Loryce Detra, for leading by example and claiming space for women and mothers on patrol. To Sarah Keating, who took me under her wing from day one. I cannot imagine my life without her years of coaching, encouragement, and friendship. The certified members and the entire patrol family at Elk gave me the foundation to build. The Eastern New York Region and Gore Patrol for giving me opportunities to grow and to lead. Bill Zink for fielding each “question of the day,” pushing me to solve problems and find my way, and for breakfasts. To my dear friends and family for cheering me on, especially Lauren Olinksy, Amy Reinink, and Chrissy Ludka.
To all of the certified members and patrollers who spent time with me this season—the list is long. You are amazing, generous mentors who give back to this organization in so many ways. Thank you.
by Melinda Mingus, Patroller Stress Awareness Advisor | Oct 27, 2023 | Division News, Program News
Melinda Mingus, MD, Eastern Division Patroller Stress Awareness AdvisorThe Patroller Stress Awareness Team (PSAT), led by Melinda Mingus, MD, is a team of highly dedicated and experienced professionals, including those in healthcare and mental health. Working together with the Safety and Medical programs, PSAT also collaborates with the NSP Wellness Task Force to help develop a national initiative on patroller well-being.
Our mission is to provide and promote continuous physical, mental, and emotional well-being for our patrollers, candidates, and staff and to support the NSP Statement of Intent on Well-Being: “National Ski Patrol is committed to creating and supporting a culture of wellness, safety, and resilience for all our members and those whom we serve. Honoring NSP core values, we will provide our community with the awareness, leadership, guidance, education, and resources needed to help ensure their emotional and mental well-being.”
We continuously research, develop, and deliver educational resources, including videos, PowerPoints, posters, wallet cards, and more – available under the Resources tab at NSPeast.ORG website.
At no cost, we provide an essential patroller stress education course, Stress Injury Preparation for Patrollers (SIPP), at patrollerschool.org. Produced and written by Ollie Neith, it upskills participants on what they need to know about the potential for stress injury, how to prepare for it, and what to do to help mitigate its impact.
Contact Melinda Mingus for more information and resources. The ED PSA Program is made by patrollers, for patrollers. We Support Patrollers.
by Ollie Neith, MSW | Oct 26, 2023 | Division News, Program News
I still wake up from time to time wondering what’s happened to John. He probably doesn’t remember me, but I’ll never forget him and that night while sweeping the mountain 17 years ago when I found him in the trees off the side of the trail.
He was wedged like a folded multi-tool between two trees, unresponsive, with very shallow breathing and a barely detectable pulse. I called in to send everything to my location and to put the helicopter on standby.
It still replays in my mind: I hear Mark, the second patroller on the scene, saying, “I can’t get his jaw open,” and I remember saying we’d need to pull him out from between the trees. I remember vividly telling Sam to try to maintain c-spine stability as we did so. But most of the rest of the entire rescue is missing from my memory. I have since learned that such partial memory is not uncommon. It’s like a movie that’s been chopped up into 15-second segments with only some saved and the rest thrown away.
That night and for days after, I replayed the rescue in my head whether I wanted to or not. I didn’t sleep through the night and was edgy and distracted.
Worst of all, I didn’t understand what was wrong with me and why this was happening to me. It was only after a Critical Incident Stress Debriefing that I began to understand that nothing was wrong with me, that what I was experiencing was to be expected given the traumatizing nature of John’s rescue.
I wasn’t ready for John. I wasn’t prepared. As a result, I was blindsided and overwhelmed by the thoughts and emotions that followed.
I have since learned that many patrollers have had similar experiences and have memories of their own that haunt them to one degree or another. Indeed, as patrollers, all of us have been or will eventually be exposed to rescues that are especially complicated, life-threatening, objectively traumatic, or that stick with us long after the “all clear” has been sounded.
Rescue events like these are potentially traumatizing for us, meaning that they can challenge, compromise, and sometimes overwhelm our capacity to cope and function effectively.
When this happens, a stress injury is sustained. Stress injuries can be mild and transitory or profound and long-lasting and can be aggravated by stressful life circumstances. They may result from exposure to a traumatic event or multiple exposures over time.
Stress injuries are characterized by common, predictable, and, most of all, normal post-event reactions—feelings, thoughts, and behaviors that we usually don’t experience in our day-to-day lives.
And while any of us can get hurt, all of us can get better, especially when we understand how stress injuries are formed and, more importantly, when we have the knowledge and tools to help us navigate the aftermath of a particularly bad scene.
That night in the woods with John is what started me on my mission to ensure that patrollers are not blindsided but instead are ready for rescues like John.
To that end, I’ve created a new course, “Stress Injury Preparation for Patrollers,” for the members of the Eastern Division.
It aims to enable ski patrollers to better understand stress injury—its MOI, signs and symptoms, formation, and mitigation—and thereby be better prepared to help themselves and their fellow patrollers respond to recover from exposure to on-the-hill trauma.
I encourage you to check the new online course called “Stress Injury Preparation for Patrollers.” It can be found on the front page of the Division’s educational event website known as PatrollerSchool.ORG.
The author, Ollie Neith, is a Northern Vermont Alumni Patroller. In 2018, he founded the Camelback Ski Patrol “Disruptive Event Response Team” (DERT) to combat stress injury after living through his episodes. Successes learned from the Camelback team contributed to the creation of a Stress Awareness Team for the entire division and helped peak interest at NSP and several other divisions.
