AST 2

Welcome to Blizzard Academy, where adventure meets expertise! If you're passionate about backcountry skiing or snowboarding and have already completed your AST 1 training, it's time to elevate your skills to new heights with our Avalanche Skills Training Certificate 2 (AST 2). Proudly offering the only Avalanche Canada AST 2 accredited course in Australia, Blizzard Academy is your ultimate destination for advanced avalanche education.

Why Choose AST2?

AST2 is not just another course; it's an essential step for anyone serious about safely navigating more challenging backcountry terrain. Building on the foundational knowledge gained in AST 1, this advanced program delves deeper into the intricacies of snow science, terrain assessment, and emergency management. Here's what you can expect from this comprehensive four-day course:

Course Structure

  • Day 1: Classroom Session Dive deep into theoretical concepts and enrich your foundational knowledge. This session sets the stage for the practical experiences that follow.

  • Days 2-4: Field Sessions Apply your classroom learning in real-world settings under the guidance of our expert instructors. Experience hands-on training that sharpens your skills in snow assessment, decision-making, and rescue operations.

Meet Our Lead Instructor: Kyle

For the past 10 winters, Kyle has traveled the globe, guiding, forecasting, and teaching courses to obtain the OPS2 certification and the expertise required to teach the AST 2 in Australia. His diverse experience includes two seasons as a snowboard instructor in Austria, four winters with Hokkaido Backcountry Club in Japan as a heli, cat, and touring guide, and an AST 1 instructor. He has been a backcountry guide and AST 1 instructor in Australia for five seasons with Thredbo Guides and Alpine Access Australia. Kyle has also shared his expertise with Mountain Safety Collective since 2019 and has been a forecaster since 2022. He has undertaken multiple trips to New Zealand to enhance his knowledge and is working towards the CSGA 3 certification in Canada, where he has recently worked for Skeena Cat Skiing and Backcountry Snowcats and is currently a lead guide at Big Red Cats. His extensive experience and dedication to professional growth highlight his passion for snow and commitment to educating others.

Requirements

To enroll in the AST 2 course, participants must:

  • Have completed the AST 1 course.

  • Possess a minimum of 10 days of backcountry experience post-AST 1.

  • Provide a copy of their AST 1 certificate upon registration.

The Pinnacle of Recreational Avalanche Education

AST 2 is more than just a certificate; it's a transformative journey that equips you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to tackle the most demanding backcountry adventures. Whether you're aiming to explore multi-day excursions or pursue ambitious backcountry objectives, this course is the pinnacle of your recreational avalanche education.

At Blizzard Academy, our seasoned instructors, led by Kyle, bring a wealth of experience and passion for avalanche safety, ensuring you receive the highest quality training. Join us and become a part of a community that values safety, knowledge, and the stoke in the backcountry.

Ready to take the next step in your avalanche education? Enrol in Blizzard Academy’s AST 2 course today and prepare to master the backcountry with unparalleled expertise and confidence. Your adventure awaits!

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