, 254
Thanks to support from NSS and caver volunteers from across the U.S., the NSS Vertical Training Commission (VTC) has continued to implement a national vertical training program for cavers.
Our progress in the past year (expected as of the 2026 NSS Convention):
- Held nine Level 1 basic-vertical training courses, with about 70 Level 1 students
- Held three Level 1 trainer-pilot courses
- Approved 23 new Level 1 trainers
- Approved ten new master trainers
- Established four regional course-gear caches (Northeast, Central, Southeast, South Central)
- Updated draft Level 1 trainer guide
Our plans over the coming year:
- Offer up to four Level 1 trainer courses
- Offer up to 15 Level 1 vertical training courses
- Implement a scholarship program
- Raise funds for scholarship and operating endowments, additional regional course-gear caches, and loaner vertical gear kits
- Finalize the Level 1 trainer curriculum
- Develop and pilot a master-trainer curriculum
Opportunities for NSS member involvement (see vtc.caves.org/get-involved):
Volunteer!
- Apply to become a VTC-qualified trainer or master trainer
- Apply for other VTC volunteer positions as they become available
Donate!
- Bill Cuddington Memorial Scholarship Fund
- VTC Operational Endowment Fund
- Regional Course Gear Caches
- Loaner Vertical Gear Kits
Take a VTC course!
- Level 1 courses are advertised on NSS and VTC websites
- Level 1 trainer courses are open to approved Level 1 trainer candidates
- Get on VTC's email list to be notified of upcoming course opportunities
Ron Miller, VTC National Coordinator