Avalanche Education
SPART is a recognized course provider through the National Ski Patrol (NSP), delivering avalanche education that fully meets the standards of the American Avalanche Association (A3), the nationally recognized benchmark for avalanche training in the United States.
The A3 Standard
The American Avalanche Association sets the gold standard for avalanche education in the U.S., establishing the learning outcomes and competency benchmarks that define what it means to be truly prepared in avalanche terrain. A3-aligned courses are recognized by professional avalanche workers, mountain rescue teams, and backcountry professionals across the country as the highest level of civilian avalanche training available.
Our curriculum covers all required A3 learning outcomes, ensuring that every student who completes our program meets that national standard. But we go further.
Built for Professionals
Because our courses are delivered through the NSP framework, our curriculum extends beyond the A3 core to include specialized topics relevant to ski patrollers and search and rescue responders. This includes NSP Organized Rescue skills — the systematic, team-based approach to managing avalanche rescue operations in complex, multi-victim, or extended scenarios. This additional depth is what separates a trained backcountry traveler from a prepared rescue professional.
Our Instructors
All of our lead instructors are A3 Professional Members, the highest individual credentialing level offered by the American Avalanche Association. They are supported by A3 Affiliate Members serving as assistant instructors, ensuring a high instructor-to-student ratio and a quality learning experience in both classroom and field settings.
Who We Teach
Our courses are open to active Ski Patrollers and Search and Rescue responders. We have a particular focus on serving the SAR community, providing avalanche education to rescue units throughout King County, across Washington State, and across the Pacific Northwest.
If your SAR unit operates in or near avalanche terrain, your team needs training that goes beyond recreational awareness. We can help.
Contact Us
To inquire about upcoming courses or to bring SPART’s avalanche education program to your unit, please contact us.