M.A.S.T 3+ In-Person Course

M.A.S.T 3 In-Person Course Instruction

Course Schedule

Module 1

Day 1

Morning Meeting – 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM

Since it’s been some time since the group’s last formal avalanche training, we will begin by reviewing the fundamental concepts. This will help refresh everyone’s knowledge and ensure a strong foundation as we progress into more advanced topics

Avalanche Builtin
Weather Forecasting
Types of Avalanches
Avalanche sizing
Trip Planning
Group Traveling Habits
Rescue Equipment

Engage with the group and start a discussion. Address any gaps in their knowledge. These areas may need to be filled. This will ensure everyone is on the same page and fully prepared as we move forward, reinforcing key concepts and clarifying any uncertainties

Field Instruction – 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM

Infield review will consist of:

Avalanche Rescue Gear Check
Avalanche Terrain Identification
Hazard Recognition Skills
Terrain Travel Habits Reinforcement
Snowpack Overview

When appropriate spacing allows, we’ll perform a “circle of shame” and range check. This will confirm all avalanche rescue gear is working for the duration of Module 1. This ritual reinforces accountability and reinforces habits of a prepared crew.

Day 2

Morning Meeting – 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM

Please arrive on time, coffee in hand, and settle in—our course will begin promptly at 8:00 AM.

We’ll start with introductions and provide a comprehensive overview of what to expect during the 6-day M.A.S.T. Level 3 course. This session sets the tone for a high-level training experience. There is limited time for review. Therefore, it’s essential that students arrive with a solid foundation from M.A.S.T. 2.

Key elements of the morning session include an overview:

Gear check: Confirm all recommended equipment has been purchased and is in proper working order
AM/PM WP Forms: Demonstrate how to fill out the morning and evening workflow planning forms
Course materials: Distribute the In-Field Book and clearly outline course expectations
Digital setup: Guide students in downloading and setting up the Microsoft Teams App
Course timeline: Lay out the work and expectations between Module 1 and Module 2
Trip plan flow chart: Walk through the full trip planning process for the course
Route planning: Establish the day’s travel objectives and terrain plan
Learning objectives: Outline the focus for snowpack analysis, observations, and rescue development
Develop students ability to research and understand weather forecasting
Advance your mapping skills to support route planning and terrain analysis in complex terrain

We will conclude the morning session with a demonstration of the PM WP Form. Then we will head into the field to begin hands-on instruction.

⚠️ Reminder: Level 3 moves quickly. This course is not designed for review of Level 2 material—it builds on it. Come ready to engage, apply your knowledge, and lead.

Field Instruction – 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM

Please arrive at the course fully prepared: sleds fueled, gear checked, and food packed. We’ll begin the session with a brief review of avalanche rescue equipment to ensure all systems are functional and field-ready.

This day marks a transition in the course: each student will begin stepping into team leadership roles. The session starts at the staging area, where we will:

Conduct a pre-ride briefing
Perform gear checks
Review group travel habits and the route plan
Record current weather observations

From here, students will begin implementing travel plans into the backcountry.

Instructors will model team leadership behaviors throughout the day. This includes:

Avalanche hazard assessments
Weather re-evaluations and snowpack observations
Appropriate use of snowpack testing tools
Group spacing strategies that match the current hazard level
Communication skills

Together, we’ll complete a full snow profile demonstration, including:

Proper snow pit site selection, layout and documentation
Use of the in-field book for recording weather and avalanche observations
Clear expectations for future team leaders on how to identify and track the avalanche problem

This section sets the standard for field documentation. It improves everyone’s ability to hunt and identify avalanche hazards as a team.

With M.A.S.T. Level 3 focusing heavily on leadership development, students and instructors will work together to:

Create motorized rescue scenarios
Present these scenarios to the team leader of the day
Observe as the team leader navigates and solves the problem with peer support and instructor guidance

This process strengthens each participant’s ability to lead under pressure, communicate clearly, and manage complex rescue responses in dynamic terrain.

End of day debrief will include:

Completing individual PM Forms and verbally debrief
Reviewing the course objectives for upcoming sessions
Announcing the Team Leader for the following day, selected by the instructor

This wrap-up reinforces accountability, sets clear expectations, and ensures the group is aligned and ready for Day 2.

Day 3

Morning Meeting – 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM

The selected Team Leader for the day will begin their responsibilities at 7:00 AM. They will have a Microsoft Teams meeting alongside the course instructor. This one-on-one session is designed to:

Work through the Trip Plan Flow Chart
Assist in completing the AM WP Form
Review three riding zone options, provided by the instructor, and select the preferred route for the day

All students are expected to:

Review and complete their AM WP Forms prior to 8:00 AM
Submit forms on time and be prepared to engage in group discussion

At 8:00 AM sharp, the entire group will join the daily Microsoft Teams meeting. During this meeting, the Team Leader will present their finalized trip plan. This includes:

Summary of previous day’s weather and avalanche activity
Today’s weather forecast and avalanche bulletin highlights
Riding location selection and full route plan overview

The rest of the group will then have the opportunity to:

Discuss the day’s avalanche and weather concerns
Contribute to the route plan and refine travel goals
Align on the course objectives and safety considerations

This structured process reinforces leadership, communication, and collective decision-making—essential skills for managing risk in avalanche terrain.

Field Instruction – 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM

The Team Leader selected for the day will take full responsibility for managing the group in the field. The Course Instructor will provide guidance and support.

The Team Leader runs the morning staging area meeting, confirming gear, travel plans, and communication protocols
Reviews the day’s hazard level with the group, using weather data, avalanche bulletin insights, and route planning inputs

Throughout the day, the Team Leader is expected to:

Conduct on-site hazard assessments, including:

Weather observations
Snowpack testing and pit site selection
Terrain identification and route finding
Identification and mitigation of human factors
Choose a productive location for a snow profile based on conditions and learning goals

Snow Profile & Scenario Prep:

The group assists in digging the majority of the snow pit

While the group departs with the instructor to stage the rescue scenario, the Team Leader:

Completes the snow profile documentation
Prepares to present findings to the returning group
Chooses and demonstrates one of two snowpack tests, explaining the reason for the selection
Guides other students in recording results in their field books

Rescue Scenario Execution:

The Team Leader leads the group through the rescue scenario, focusing on:

Command and communication
Scene safety and role delegation
Managing environmental challenges (e.g., mechanical failure, stress, interference)

The goal is to develop the Team Leader’s ability to manage a full motorized rescue scenario. This involves balancing leadership, decision-making, and group coordination.

Lead a Free Ride:

At some point during the day, the Team Leader will:

Plan and lead a “fun ride” that aligns with current hazard levels
Select a safe and enjoyable route
Ensure all safe travel practices are being implemented
Balance risk management with rider experience

The Team Leader guides the group back to the staging area

Team lead facilitates the PM meeting, including:

Group review of the day
Submission of PM WP Forms by all students
Course instructor to selects team lead for following day

Receives a personal debrief from the Course Instructor—covering performance, communication, and areas for growth

Day 4

Morning Meeting – 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM

The morning meeting will mirror the format of Module 1, Day 2. This approach reinforces the learning progression established during the Team Leader’s day. It supports the group’s ongoing development in leadership and decision-making.

Field Instruction – 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM

The field component will reflect the structure of Module 1, Day 2. It provides a familiar framework for students. This helps them apply and refine leadership, group travel, and terrain management skills. This continuity supports the evolution from observation to execution as students take on more responsibility in real-time decision-making.

Teams Meeting

Students are expected to complete assigned homework from Module 1 during their free riding days throughout the season. These assignments are designed to reinforce the learning outcomes of the course. They prepare students for continued skill development in Module 2.

To support the homework program and deepen field-based learning, students will attend two group virtual check-in meetings via Microsoft Teams. Each session includes a focused presentation and progress review.

First Teams Meeting

Snowpack Foundations

Instructor Presentation Topics:

Slab formation processes
Bed surface creation
Crystal type identification and layering
Applying snow science to your day

Discussion Focus:

Review and feedback on each student’s AM and PM WP Forms submitted so far
Reinforce application of observations in snowpack documentation

Second Teams Meeting

Instructor Presentation Topics:

Slope shape and how it influences tension within a slab
Decision-making related to terrain angles and slab distribution
Slope size and potential run out
Identifying higher risk terrain features

Discussion Focus:

Continued review of submitted AM and PM WP Forms
Group discussion around how terrain choices reflect hazard awareness and planning strategy

Have Access to your instructor at any time

Module 2

Day 5, 6, 7

Morning Meeting – 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM

The morning meeting will mirror the format of Module 1, Day 2. It will reinforce the learning progression established during the Team Leader’s day. This supports the group’s ongoing development in leadership and decision-making.

Field Instruction – 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM

The field component will reflect the structure of Module 1, Day 2. It provides a familiar framework for students to apply and refine their leadership, group travel, and terrain management skills. This continuity supports the evolution from observation to execution as students take on more responsibility in real-time decision-making.

Course Close

After the course has concluded, each student will schedule a one-on-one debrief. This meeting with the instructor will take place via Microsoft Teams. This follow-up session—held after some time has passed—allows for reflection on the full course experience. The instructor will provide constructive feedback and a course evaluation. This will offer insight into the student’s strengths. It will also highlight areas for improvement and overall progression.