Trip Highlights
- Expert Training by Mark Hirst
- Hands on Scenarios
- Train on Rivers Near Hood River, Oregon
- Learning Alongside Other River Professionals
Whitewater Rescue Instructor Training
Designed for Whitewater Professionals
Rescue 3 Instructor Training
- Dates: September 14-22, 2025
- Minimum Age: 21
- Prerequisites: Current WRT-Pro and WFR Certifications (or Equivalent)
- Meeting Place: Hood River, OR
- Course Price: $1595
Our Whitewater Rescue Technician Instructor (WRTI) Course is designed for those who want to teach and certify others in whitewater rescue techniques. This intensive and hands-on course will prepare you to confidently lead rescue training sessions while promoting safety and competence in the whitewater community.
Course Schedule
- Days 1-5: Rescue Instructor Course
- Day 6: Day off
- Days 7-9: Instructor Assessments
Course Highlights
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Learn to teach rescue fundamentals, advanced river safety techniques, and incident management skills
- Instructor Development: Gain the skills needed to effectively communicate and demonstrate rescue concepts to students of all experience levels
- Hands-On Training: Practice real-world rescue scenarios on dynamic rivers
- Expert Guidance: Receive personalized instruction from Mark Hirst, an instructor trainer for Rescue 3
Who Should Attend
This course is ideal for seasoned guides, river rescue technicians, and outdoor educators with prior rescue training who want to take the next step in their professional journey. Participants should have strong river skills and interest in teaching.
Course Requirements
- Previous certification as a Whitewater Rescue Technician (WRT-Pro)
- Significant whitewater experience
- A commitment to safety, teamwork, and leadership in the whitewater setting
Why Choose Northwest Rafting Company?
We pride ourselves on providing world-class training in an environment that fosters learning, growth, and adventure. With our experienced instructors, small class sizes, and commitment to safety, you’ll receive the personalized attention you need to become a confident and effective WRT instructor.
Learn About Rescue 3 Instructor Trainer Mark Hirst
Mark Hirst is an internationally recognized rafting and rescue instructor with a wealth of experience in guide and rescue training. As a certified instructor for both Rescue 3 Europe and the International Rafting Federation, Mark has dedicated his career to advancing safety standards and teaching rescue techniques to river professionals worldwide.
Originally from Manchester, England, Mark’s expertise has taken him to some of the world’s most dynamic and challenging river environments. He regularly teaches courses in Finland, Bosnia, Russia, Nepal, India, Iceland, and Morocco, sharing his knowledge and passion for whitewater safety with diverse audiences.
Mark’s teaching philosophy emphasizes hands-on, practical learning, and fostering confidence in real-world rescue situations. Through his Lapin Koskikoulu Blog, he shares insights, experiences, and valuable tips on whitewater safety and training.
We are licensed by the Oregon State Marine Board and operate under special use permit with the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area and Mt. Hood National Forest. Additionally, we are an equal opportunity provider and employer.