WildMed
Wilderness Medical Instructor
We are currently accepting applications from those interested in becoming an Instructor for Wilderness Medical Associates. This is an excellent opportunity for those who already work in the outdoor or medical field who would like to diversify their career experience. It is also an excellent way to contribute to the broader goal of making the outdoor industry a safe, professional field. Successful candidates will receive teaching assignments in their own region, with opportunities to teach throughout Canada, and perhaps internationally.
Instructors will become a part of the international WMA network of more than 100 instructors worldwide. Instructors are WMA’s most valuable asset and have helped build WMA’s reputation as the global leader in wilderness and remote medicine.
Becoming an instructor can be a lengthy and time-consuming process. As a result, Instructor-candiates must be highly-skilled, energetic and dedicated.
Details
Date: TBA
Location: TBA - Western Canada
Course Fee: $579 (accommodation and meals provided)
Format: A mix of classroom and outdoor sessions
Prerequisites
- Solid teaching experience
- Diverse wilderness experience
- Certification at the Paramedic level or above is preferred, however we will consider candidates with other relevant training and life experience.
- Hands-on emergency patient care experience: eg. ski patrol, ambulance, hospital, etc. If you do not have patient experience you must be willing to gain experience (ie: third person on an ambulance) before advancing to Lead Instructor.
The Process
STEP 1: Complete an application for instructor training including:
- A letter of introduction (see required questions below)
- A current resumé
- Copies of all current relevant certifications
- 2-3 letters of reference
Once the package is received, applicants will be interviewed via telephone.
STEP 2: If you do not have a current WMA WFR, we encourage candidates to take it before the Instructor Course. Alternatively, we are holding a WEMT Upgrade course immediately preceding the Instructor Training Course. This course would be a valuable asset to all new WMA instructors and is recommended for those who have not taken a WMA course before or for any medical professional who would like to add the wilderness component to their credentials. This course is also strongly recommended for those who are EMR/OFAIII/WFR certified with suitable rescue/patient care experience. Dates are: March 9-13 inclusive. For more information on the WEMT click here. To view our online schedule click here.
STEP 3: Attend the Instructor Training Course (IT). (Note: Completion of the IT course does not ensure employment with Wilderness Medical Associates Canada. Successful candidates will be notified in writing within five working days of the IT.)
STEP 4: (After the IT Course) Upon completion of the IT, successful participants are certified as “Assistant Instructors”. Each Assistant will be given individual learning program, based on their prior experience and demonstrated skill level. Assistants are expected to complete a number of steps before they may advance to “Lead Instructor”. These steps can include:
- Upgrade any deficient area (ie: patient contact or medical certificate)
- Videotape themselves teaching, for review by WMA’s Quality Assurance Committee
- Obtain written evaluations from Lead Instructors
Once you have sufficient experience as an Assistant, you may apply for a promotion to Lead Instructor. Generally, assistants work at least three to five courses before they are considered for Lead positions.
Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided for all participants and is included in the course fee. Double occupancy will apply.
Meals
The following meals are included in the course fee. Please note that lunches are not included.
Application
Please answer the following questions in your letter of introduction. When completed, please attach your resumé, certification, and references and forward the package to Ron Morrison. Click here for our contact information.
1. What is your level of formal medical training ?
2. What is your current position?
3. List your experiences with hands-on emergency patient care. For how long?
4. What is your background in wilderness rescue?
5. What is your teaching background? What have you taught and for how long?
6. What other life experience do you feel has prepared you to be an educator?
7. What is your background in outdoor leadership and skills?
8. Do you have administrative experience? If so please describe?
9. Please describe any other relevant background or life experiences that would prepare you to work for Wilderness Medical Associates Canada.
10. Why do you wish to become an Instructor? Please indicate what you believe is your strongest asset.
11. What is your availability to teach courses? How many days/weeks a year? Are you willing to travel around Canada (expenses paid of course)?
12. Are you associated with any organization that might sponsor a Wilderness Medical Associates Canada course?
