important question

Question
hi
i really want to pursue my career in rock climbing. the problem is - i don't know what kind of diploma/degree/certificate do i ahve to have for that
thank you
sincerely
kate p.

Answer
Dear Kate-----I know of four climbing careers:

1. guide
2. equipment rep
3. celebrity
4. designer

As to the guide route---one way is to be certified with the American Mountain Guide Association, in Canada, or in Europe.

As to equipment rep---better be really good and personally likable.

As to celebrity---climb really hard climbs.

As to equipment designer---best to start with a design or engineering degree.

For a lower profile, many start with an outdoor education degree, then work their way up through organizations like NOLS.


For more on climbing safety, please see, my book, "Ultrasafe, A Guide to Safer Rock Climbing," available at Amazon.com.

Good Luck