Tips for Choosing the Right Certifications for You

Embarking on the path of outdoor exploration and leadership begins with the right certifications. At Outdoor Training Services (OTS), we understand that each person’s journey is unique, and selecting the certifications that align with your outdoor interests and goals is the first step toward an enriching adventure. Let's navigate through the options and guide you in choosing the certifications that best suit your aspirations.

1) Identify Your Outdoor Interests

Before delving into certification options, reflect on your outdoor interests. Are you passionate about wilderness exploration, water activities, youth development or community engagement? Understanding your preferences will help you narrow down the certifications that resonate with your specific outdoor pursuits.

2) Assess Your Skill Set

Consider your current skill set and expertise. Are you a novice looking to build foundational skills, or are you seeking advanced certifications to enhance your existing knowledge? OTS offers a range of certifications catering to various proficiency levels, helping ensure there's a fitting option for everyone.

3) Define Your Personal and Professional Goals

If you're pursuing certifications for professional development, clarify your goals. Are you aspiring to become a certified Wilderness First Responder, a challenge course facilitator, or a lifeguard? How will these skills further your career? If you’re planning your next personal adventure, which skills are needed to help ensure that you can plan and execute the trip safely? Aligning your certifications with your personal and professional goals helps ensure that each course contributes directly to your advancement.

4) Explore Certification and Training Options

A number of organizations offer an array of training and certification options, each tailored to different aspects of outdoor activities and leadership. While OTS focuses on creating accessible training and certification options that support personal and professional development, other organizations offer Continuing Education Units (or “CEUs”) and other resources that can provide different benefits. Each organization is crafted to provide specialized knowledge and skills, but it’s important to identify programs that align with your developmental goals.

5) Consider the Training Format

In this day and age, flexible learning options include online, in person and hybrid formats, which are catered to diverse needs and preferences. Consider the format that aligns with your schedule, learning style and geographical location.

6) Leverage Discounts and Scholarships

OTS believes in making outdoor training accessible to all. To support this, we’ve created a tiered pricing program that allows our participants to choose a payment option that aligns with their budget. Most organizations offer discounts for students and first responders, and many offer scholarship programs that provide opportunities for financial support. These resources help ensure that cost is not a barrier to your development. (Our scholarship program info is here.)

7) Seek Guidance from Peers and Mentors

If you're unsure about which trainings and certifications align best with your goals, there are a number of places where you can find support. Here at OTS, we’ve committed to supporting the individual. Our expert team invites folks to reach out to us for personalized guidance and recommendations based on your interests, skill level and aspirations. We’re not afraid to point you in another direction if we can’t help you ourselves, because we know that the learning journey is highly personal. We’re just excited to help people find their path!

But in the end, trust your instincts!

Selecting the right certifications with Outdoor Training Services is not just about acquiring skills; it's about crafting a personalized journey that aligns with your interests and goals. Navigate through the options, explore the possibilities and embark on a developmental adventure that propels you toward your aspirations. Your journey awaits, and we can’t wait to walk it with you.