Join us at the annual Winter School Leader Training!

The training is mandatory for new WS leaders and highly encouraged for returning leaders. The training runs from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM at the MIT Campus. Please meet us at 3-270 (MIT Building 3, room 270). If you need help with MIT building access, please indicate that at sign-up to help people get in).

Please arrive promptly. Students will be at the main entrance at building 7 from 8:15-8:45am to help you get into the building if you don’t have card access.

At the training, you will have the opportunity to get to know other leaders, gain group management skills, get experience with MITOC leader gear, start planning trips, and learn how MITOC leaders make winter school trips successful and safe. Lunch will be provided. Please bring a water bottle and dress for being outside, the current forecast is for slightly sub-freezing temps and a noticeable wind).

Program

• 8:00-8:45 Breakfast, Sign In, and introductions
• 8:30-8:45 Welcome remarks, introductions
• 8:45-9:10 WS logistics and trip planning
• 9:10-10:05 Winter Safety
• 10:05-10:25 Hypothermia and cold weather health issues
• 10:40-10:55 Break
• 10:55-11:45 Trip scenarios (5 minute intro)
• 11:45-12:25 Debrief scenarios
• 12:25-1:25 Lunch & mentor/mentee meetups
• 1:25-3:00 Gear stations
• 3:00-3:10 Snack break
• 3:10-3:20 Representing trip difficulty
• 3:20-3:50 Representing MITOC
• 3:50-4:00 Theme hikes and easy hikes
• 4:00-4:10 Reimbursements
• 4:10-4:40 Case study
• 4:40-4:50 Intervale and Camelot
• after 5:00 Optional self-organized dinner and social time

Please note this schedule is rough and subject to adjustment, and except a small delay with the planned end time.

If you are interested in becoming a full B or C leader, you will need to have a current WFA (or equivalent) certification.

Please email ws-chair@mit.edu if you have any questions or concerns. Thanks, and hope to see y’all there!