by Bill Zink, Certified Supervisor | Jul 4, 2025 | Program News
Certified patrollers in the Eastern Division often become key resources for their resorts and patrol teams. Their expertise allows them to contribute at a higher level during complex incidents, such as multi-casualty accidents, extreme weather rescues, or avalanche events.
Their advanced training also positions them to serve as mentors for new patrollers, helping to elevate the skill level and preparedness of the entire patrol. This ripple effect benefits both the ski areas and the skiing public, reinforcing a culture of safety and excellence on the mountain.
Participation in the Certified Program also fosters a strong sense of community among elite patrollers across the Eastern Division. Annual events such as the certified exam and regional clinics bring together candidates, alumni, and examiners from different states and resorts.
It’s true that it takes a village. Many families and friends get involved. Last season, 11-year-old Jonah Guth was recognized for his contributions to the Certified Program. He has been at every event, helping in every way he can. He’s patiently waiting to start patrolling. His jacket says Jonah Guth, Certified Trailblazer. He is the son of Justin and Amy Guth. Justin is Certified #624, and Amy is a Senior TE. They both patrol at Pat’s Peak. Justin is the NH Region Director.
These gatherings provide opportunities for networking, sharing innovations in patrol techniques, and building long-term professional relationships. Many patrollers find this camaraderie and shared dedication to excellence as rewarding as the certification itself.
Moreover, the Eastern Division continues to evolve the Certified Program to meet the changing demands of ski patrol work. With advancements in rescue technology, updated medical protocols, and increased focus on risk management, the program remains current and relevant. The leadership within the division actively reviews and refines the curriculum, ensuring that certified patrollers remain on the cutting edge of mountain safety. This commitment to growth and improvement is part of what makes the Certified Program not just a goal, but a lifelong journey for those who pursue it.
by Chuck Boyd, Nordic/Backcountry Supervisor | Jul 4, 2025 | Program News
What is a Nordic Master? As the name suggests, it is a master of all Nordic skills. These include Nordic Senior, MTR 1 & 2, Avalanche 1 & 2, instructor in one or more NSP disciplines, holding or having held an NSP administrative position, and demonstrating proficiency in XC and Nordic downhill skiing, as well as toboggan handling skills. Once these prerequisites are met, candidates must pass three final evaluations and an oral review board to earn this coveted certification.
Currently, there are 22 Nordic Masters across the country. One is a division director, two are on the national board of directors, another is the national Nordic/Backcountry program director, and three are division Nordic/Backcountry program supervisors. All the Nordic Masters have worked tirelessly to master their skills and provide leadership and education to help make NSP the best it can be.
This level of achievement does not happen overnight. I’m NM 005 and have been a patroller for 31 years. With determination, you might be able to achieve this goal in 10-15 years of service, but being a Nordic Master is about being the best that you can be. We now have a couple of patrollers starting the final evaluation process and several others who have almost completed all the prerequisites.
Planning for this season is already underway, with the AMN scheduled for the weekend of September 26-28, 2025, at Pike Glades, NH. This is an instructor education event, but all patrollers are welcome, especially if you are considering becoming an instructor in any of the three disciplines.
We plan on running our three Nordic Senior/Nordic Master events similar to last season. First will be Nordic Fest at Highland Forest, NY, January 9-11, 2026. Second will be a Nordic/Backcountry event at Pike Glades, NH, February 27, 28, and March 1, 2026. The third and final event will be the Nordic Senior/Nordic Master event at Bolton Valley, VT, on the weekend of March 20-22, 2026. These events will be posted on the division calendar as well as Patroller School once the final details are worked out.
Hope you all have a great summer and look forward to seeing as many of you as possible on skis this winter.
by Bill Zink, Certified Supervisor | Jun 5, 2025 | Division News, Program News
It’s that time of year again to plan your summer/fall patrol activities. Two of our favorites are back this year: Certified Boot Camp and Enhanced Patroller School. Both promise new adventures, team-building opportunities, and activities that will definitely stretch your skills and thought processes.
Last year’s Boot Camp events included fundamental first aid, mass casualty and triage skill development, new and creative approaches to lift evacuation skills, mountain operations, tower climbing dos and don’ts, outdoor risk management, avalanche fundamentals, and low-angle rescue. Our event was hosted at Holiday Mountain Ski Area in the Southern New York Region. It provided unique insights into what it takes to “open” an abandoned ski resort. Thanks to Mike Taylor, a fellow patroller and new owner of the resort, for being a gracious host and a brave entrepreneur.
Highlights from last year’s Boot Camp include:
• A Friday night lift evacuation exercise with all participants assigned a role in a simulated lift evac. The players included state and local officials, mountain management, resort operations manager, lift maintenance, and patrol. The scenario was presented to the participants through role-playing. All in attendance gained valuable experience in understanding the roles and responsibilities associated with lift evacuation. We all gained new appreciation for all the players involved in a lift evacuation.
• An ORM session led by certified patroller and mountain manager, Ted Davis, from Ski Windham, and
• A discussion of certified credentials held late on a hot day in the river, allowing for a refreshing discussion of the topic.
2025 Boot Camp
This year’s Certified Boot Camp will be hosted by Ski Roundtop, a Vail resort located just south of Harrisburg, PA. Activities will include a ropes course, camping by the lake, paintball opportunities, and unique insights into the operations of a Vail Resort, as well as:
• Your “normal” OEC, LE, LAR, and Avalanche activities.
• Friday night will include a visit from a local taco truck vendor.
• The usual chefs will be in the house, including Steve Suomala and Jimmy O’Connor, and their famous breakfast burritos.
• There will be a special visit from past certified chair and Elk Mountain patroller Billy Jordan. He will be catering the Saturday night potluck with his world-famous barbecue.
• If you want to make it a long weekend, Hershey Park is only 20 minutes away and is an awesome amusement park.
• Details for the Certified Boot Camp are:
̶ Ski Roundtop, Harrisburg, PA
̶ Visit patrollerschool.org for more detailed information and upcoming registration
̶ August 15-17
̶ Arrive Friday from 4-6
̶ Depart Sunday 2-3
by Alan Quimby, WNY Newlstter Editor | Jun 5, 2025 | Division News, Program News
Lift Evac PracticeThe Genesee Valley Region has set the date and location for its popular Enhanced Patroller School. It will be held September 12-14, 2025, at Swain Resort. This great summer training event allows patrollers to work on various patroller skills, including many aspects of the OEC program, chairlift evacuation techniques, low-angle rescue methods, and rescue knot tying. The weekend culminates with a simulated mass casualty incident on Sunday morning, bringing together all the skills reviewed during the previous two days. Many of the skills covered are part of the NSP Certified Patroller Program.
Last year’s event, also at Swain, was attended by 53 participants and 12 gurus whose task was to help guide the various stations. These patrollers came from 23 patrols, 12 regions, nine states, and had a combined total of over 800 years of patrolling experience. Additionally, several outside agencies also participated in the simulated mass casualty Incident on Sunday, including:
Thanks to our Helpers!
Allegany County Office of Emergency Management
Alfred Station Fire Company
Canaseraga Fire Company
Dansville Ambulance Company
Medical Transport Service, Inc.
Canaseraga Ambulance
Fillmore Ambulance
Nunda Ambulance
Allegany County DC 4
Jeff Baker and Tom Wallin have been organizing these training events since 2011. Jim Nickerson and Joe Menichino have been planning and working since the beginning. From year to year, they bring in additional patrollers from around the division to help act as guides and gurus because they have expertise in the different modules they are planning. This school has always been a low-pressure, hands-on, try stuff, get your hands dirty (or bloody), and ask questions type of event.
They have always wanted it accessible to patrollers of any level, including candidates, basic patrollers, senior candidates, and senior and certified patrollers. They want everyone to have fun, learn stuff, and take ideas back to their home patrols. With patrollers coming from around the division, as you sit around the fire pit talking at night, you get an interchange of ideas and techniques from many other patrollers.
Jeff Baker patrols at Bristol Mountain, Tom Wallin and Joe Menichino at Swain Resort, and Jim Nickerson is an alumnus patroller from Hunt Hollow Resort. To register for this event, go to NSP’s Center for Learning, browse the catalog, and search for Patroller Enrichment Seminar/Genesee Valley/Swain Resort.
The GURUS2024 Enhanced Patroller School Staff – from L-R; Jonathan Smith-Pittsford Ambulance, Glenn Becker-Bristol Patrol Director/Penfield Ambulance, Jeff Baker-Bristol Patrol/Pittsford Ambulance/Lifetime Certified, Jim Nickerson-Lifetime Certified, Joe Menichino-Swain & Bristol Patrol/Lifetime Certified, Jesse Merdak-Pittsford Ambulance, Tom Wallin-Swain Patrol/Lifetime Certified, Steve LaDue-Hunt Hollow Patrol/CHS Ambulance, Rob Armet-Windham Patrol/Lifetime Certified.
by Joni Porter, MTR Supervisor | Jun 5, 2025 | Program News
The Avalanche (AVY), Mountain Travel & Rescue (MTR), and Nordic/Backcountry (N/BC) programs have scheduled the Instructor Refresher AMN 2025 for September 27-28, 2025, at The Pike Glades in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.
AMN 2025 is open to instructors and instructor-candidates from all three programs. A gentle reminder that Avvy, MTR, and N/BC instructors need to recert once every three years. If you haven’t been able to do this, please contact your Region Advisor and/or your program’s Eastern Division Supervisor.
There will be pre-attendance refreshing to be completed online at Eastern Division’s Patroller School in addition to the in-person Global Continuing Education and program-run skill stations at The Pike Glades. You will be able to register for AMN 2025 at PatrollerSchool.org. Keep checking, AMN 2025 isn’t there yet!
Here are just a few of the details (more to come):
• On-site camping is available both Friday and Saturday nights.
• Breakfast and Lunch will be provided on Saturday.
• Breakfast will be provided on Sunday.
• Dinner on Saturday night will most likely be the usual potluck (we each bring something to share) but we’ll let you know.
Check out The Pike Glades or @ThePikeGlades on all social platforms.
Read the next Trail Sweep for more details!
by Chuck Boyd, Nordic/Backcountry Supervisor | Jun 5, 2025 | Program News
We wrapped up another ski season with our Nordic Senior and Nordic Master (NM) training clinic at Bolton Valley, VT. The patrol and management were gracious hosts and worked with us to help make this event such a success. Bolton Valley provides traditional Nordic track and skate skiing and backcountry skiing for all skier levels and is an excellent choice for advanced-level evaluations.
For the Nordic Senior clinic, four patrollers expanded their knowledge and tested their skills. Saturday started with a ski tour in spring conditions, working on several uphill techniques, especially at a few challenging water bars. At the cabin, we opened the patrol’s rescue cache, and the Bolton patrollers demonstrated how they use their backcountry litter. Some new ideas were adapted as we practiced loading a patient.
After lunch, we headed out to do rope rescue work. Jeff Sergeant led the group, demonstrating the raising and lowering systems we are trying to standardize throughout all division programs requiring rope rescue skills.
The main event started in the evening. Jeff Sargent was about to be evaluated for his Nordic Master overnight SAR exercise. This is one of the three final NM evaluations required once you meet the prerequisites and is considered by many to be the most demanding. Our suite became the ICS command center with Greg France as the Incident Command (IC), training Mike Lapierre and Brian Doyle to take over in the future. Jeff started to prepare the ICS 200 paperwork. Mike Balk, our patient and lost person, headed off to a location only known to the rescue support team. Once in place, a set of GPS coordinates was called in as the last seen point of the missing skier. Jeff downloaded the coordinates into his phone. All systems were double-checked before Jeff headed out the door.
A cold front was approaching with strong winds picking up to 25-35 mph and gusting to 45, snow flurries, and temperatures dropping to single digits. It was going to be a cold night for the participants. We discussed our backup rescue plan for the rescuers, hoping for the best. The overnight SAR exercise requires the participant to navigate to the missing person, treat their injuries (at least two), build a shelter, spend the night, prepare a hot meal, and evacuate in the morning.
We tracked Jeff’s movements and studied his search patterns. He called in at regular intervals, reporting his progress. Making it to the first set of coordinates, he was surprised no one was there. A second last seen point was called in. Jeff added this to his phone, and after another 20-30 minutes of searching, the subject was located. He called this in along with his first set of vitals and treated the subject’s injuries.
Once the patient was stabilized, Jeff called back in for assistance with the evacuation. IC notified Jeff that the rest of the team was involved in another callout and that no help was available. He would have to spend the night with the subject. He replied that he was starting to build a shelter. Two hours later, once we knew Jeff was settled in with Mike, we went out to observe his situation without them knowing (evaluation and safety factor).
For Mike, part of the NM IT training is to be the patient for several of these events. As an IT, I have suffered dearly for it. Jeff was a strong candidate for this scenario, and he did very well. After making breakfast, they were both evacuated and returned to the IC smiling.
Except for the sun coming out and the temps going up to 20, the weather on Sunday was still like the night before. We spent the morning building improvised toboggans and had the students demonstrate their rope skills. We finished the day debriefing, and all headed off in different directions.
We will be back at Bolton next year, so check the division’s website calendar for the dates and registration information.
by Joni Porter, MTR Supervisor | Jun 5, 2025 | Program News
Every patroller has taken the FEMA course Incident Command System 100 (ICS-100) as part of OEC, so, of course, we’ve all got that certification.
If you’ve taken Mountain Travel & Rescue Fundamentals (MTR F) or Mountain Travel & Rescue Level 1 (MTR 1), you’ve taken the FEMA course Incident Command System 700 (ICS-700).
Those lucky enough to have taken Mountain Travel & Rescue Level 2 (MTR 2) have taken the FEMA course Incident Command System 200 (ICS-200).
Some of you may have gotten these certifications as part of a Search and Rescue team, or just for fun.
Why am I writing about these?
NSP would like to know if you have these certifications! If you log on to NSP and check your profile, these certifications should be listed in your Education/Roles.
Are you checking? I’ll wait.
Do you see all three certifications? Some who have earned all three may see only one or two. You did the work…we’d love to see those certifications in your profile!
Let’s get this done!
To upload your ICS-200 or ICS-700 certificate:
• Log in to NSP and go to the Center for Learning.
• In the course search field, type in “Incident Command.”
• Enroll in the course titled: Incident Command System 200 or 700 Certificate Submission.
• Since you’ve already taken the FEMA courses and have your certificates, all you need to do is begin the course in the Center for Learning.
• The only requirement is to upload the certificate.
Thank you for taking care of this. Your profile will thank you.
by Jason Tamulen, OEC Supervisor | Jun 5, 2025 | Division News, Program News
The Eastern Division of the National Ski Patrol is proud to announce the rollout of the Aid Room Module of the Senior Program (AR-MSP), a dynamic and critical component designed to elevate further the operational knowledge and leadership abilities of Senior Patroller candidates. As we launch this initiative, our first step is to identify passionate and qualified ski patrol members across the division who are ready to lead the charge within their respective regions.
The AR-MSP is not a repetition of the Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) module—it is a stand-alone educational and evaluative experience focusing specifically on the unique environment and challenges found within ski area aid rooms. This initiative aims to strengthen patroller capabilities in triage, medical intervention, communication, resource management, and leadership skills crucial to providing excellent care in high-pressure scenarios.
Why the AR-MSP Matters
Aid rooms are the operational nerve centers of ski patrol medical response. From managing multiple injured patients during peak hours to coordinating with EMS for critical transports, the complexity of tasks requires skill, efficiency, and calm leadership. The AR-MSP ensures that patrollers operating in these environments possess the specialized knowledge and leadership qualities necessary to handle such responsibilities.
The mission of the AR-MSP is simple: to provide Senior Patroller Candidates the opportunity to demonstrate advanced expertise in managing the aid room and delivering high-quality patient care. This includes not only clinical interventions but also coordination with emergency services, resolving conflicts with patients or visitors, and communicating effectively with area management and fellow patrollers.
What the Module Covers
The program is structured around five key topic areas:
Aid Room Triage and Resource Management
Candidates must demonstrate use of the ID-ME triage system, manage patient and non-patient incidents, deploy resources efficiently, and communicate effectively using radio or phone.
Medical Intervention and Treatment
Emphasis is placed on the primary and secondary surveys, infection control, and delivering appropriate care that aligns with both the standard of training and expected standard of care.
Conflict Resolution
Candidates are trained to manage tense or emotional situations with patients, family members, or colleagues through clear communication and calm demeanor.
Interaction with EMS and Other Agencies
Coordination with external emergency services is vital. Candidates must know when and how to transfer care, communicate infection risks, and manage legal responsibilities, including mandatory reporting.
Interface with Patrollers and Area Management
The module focuses on risk management, behavioral emergencies, and workplace injuries. Candidates must show they can operate as effective liaisons between the patrol, resort management, and external agencies.
The Training and Evaluation Process
The AR-MSP combines written exercises, discussions, scenario-based training, and final evaluations to ensure well-rounded development.
Written Exercises include:
—Aid room design and patient flow
—An assignment checklist covering essential protocols (e.g., missing person reports, ambulance requests, consent for minors)
—Responses to at least two scenarios, exploring real-world challenges
—Training Sessions are led by certified Trainers/Evaluators (T/Es), where candidates review their written assignments and practice scenarios.
Final Evaluation involves two hands-on scenarios designed to test candidate competence under pressure. Each scenario touches on multiple topic areas to simulate real-life situations in aid room settings.
Your Role in the Rollout
As we introduce the AR-MSP throughout the Eastern Division, our immediate goal is to identify enthusiastic and qualified ski patrol members to serve as regional program leaders. These individuals will work with Region OEC Administrators (ROAs) and Senior Training Coordinators (STCs) to:
—Coordinate training and evaluation events
—Support candidates as Trainers/Evaluators
—Promote awareness and participation in the program
If you have completed your OEC-MSP training and are ready to take on a leadership role in your region, we encourage you to step forward. The division will provide guidance, resources, and formal T/E training clinics to ensure that you are fully prepared to mentor candidates and uphold the high standards of the AR-MSP.
Looking Ahead
This program represents a significant step in the evolution of patroller education. By focusing on real-world aid room challenges, we prepare Senior Patrollers to be not just responders, but leaders—professionals who can think critically, act decisively, and communicate effectively during emergencies. The Aid Room Module reinforces what ski patrolling has always been about: readiness, leadership, and the commitment to serving others with excellence. With your support, we will build a stronger, more skilled patrol community across the Eastern Division. To express interest in becoming a regional AR-MSP leader or to learn more about how you or your patrol can get involved, please contact your Region OEC Administrator or Division OEC Supervisor. Together, let’s raise the bar for what it means to be a Senior Patroller in today’s ski environment. The future of our aid rooms—and the quality of care we provide—starts with us.
by Anna Hermann, WAPP YAP Advisor | Apr 15, 2025 | Program News
Every March, without fail, I look forward to the Eastern Division YAP Summit. It’s a significant event for many young adults, but I’m just like them—eager to hit the slopes, ski the trees and bumps, and find the good trouble we can get into. I’m always excited to learn something new (you’re never too old to learn something new), to watch the YAPs in the enhancement track gain confidence and knowledge in just three short days, and to see the competition groups cheer each other on. Of course, the awards banquet is always bittersweet. I’m never quite ready for the weekend to end, but I’m thrilled to see where the YAPs place and what cool swag they win. It’s truly an honor to return each year as a shepherd—arguably the best role anyone can have over the weekend, aside from being a YAP.
At the 2025 Summit, the staff decided to try something completely different—something far from the usual outdoor evening activity. The groups had the unique opportunity to create their senior-level scenarios and run them as instructors. Various chaperones, staff, and other adults were invited to participate as patrollers on the scene. For those fortunate enough to be there, well, it’s one for the books. Kudos to the creativity of these young adults!
A kind parent shared a few words about their YAP, whom I had the honor of shepherding and chaperoning—someone I hadn’t met before the event. This will be marked as the weekend she learned how to ski the bumps!
From the parents’ perspective
—I just wanted to thank you and your team for such a great event this past weekend.
—My daughter had a fabulous time.
—She made great friends, challenged her skills, and significantly grew her confidence.
—She is already excited to sign up for next year.
—I thought the event was extremely well-organized and well-run.
—Everybody was so nice and accommodating. I felt 100% comfortable letting my daughter go and do her thing.
—Your hard work did not go unnoticed.
—I cannot say enough good things.
—Have a great rest of the year and see you next year!
—Thank you again for such an amazing program.
Did somebody say SWAG?
This year didn’t fall short of being amazing. There was great skiing, fantastic OET and OEC instructors, and, best of all, an OUTSTANDING group of Young Adults! This year’s event was the largest by far, with 83 YAPs! That may seem like a large number, and no doubt it is, but over the weekend, shepherds get to know all their YAPs and unique backstories. We are truly fortunate in the Eastern Division to have such a strong program, where the hard work of the staff at every level—from division, region, and mountain—culminates in an event like this, reflecting the dedication and effort that flows through this division program. This is the future of our division; these are our future leaders.
