Adventure Tourism Business Operations Certificate

The ATBO program is an adventure itself. As a student, you’ll complete academic courses geared to prepare you for the business component of the industry, but you’ll also take part in several field courses that will challenge you and let you learn from your own real-life experiences. What will the field courses look like if you enroll in the program? Well, that’s part of the adventure. There are many variables that will impact your own experience, but you can expect to venture out in many different environments, in a variety of weather conditions, and be faced with an array of challenges, and different group situations. But don’t take our word for it. A few of our former students share some of their most memorable moments. Check out their stories.

This program starts in September each year. Part-time students applying in the Winter or Spring semester should select University General Studies as their program when applying.

• 1 year certificate program
• Credits can be used towards a tourism degree program
• A combination of academic and field courses and six-week practicum

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Certificate Program Requirements

Required Courses:

Course	Title	Credits
ATBO 101	Principles of Tourism	3
ATBO 105	Wilderness Travel	3
ATBO 106	Experiential Leadership & Guiding	3
ATBO 107	Natural Interpretation	3
ATBO 109	Risk Management	3
ATBO 121	Backpacking Level 1	2
ATBO 123	Introduction to Outdoor Skills	2
COMP 153	Introduction to Data Processing	3
ENGL 100	English Composition	3
ATBO 114	Wilderness First Aid	2
Total		27

Plus three elective courses (6 credits) chosen from:

Course	Title	Course
ATBO 131	Whitewater Kayak Level 1	2
ATBO 132	Canoe Guide Skills	2
ATBO 133	Sea Kayaking Level 1	2
ATBO 141	Rock Climbing Level 1	2
ATBO 142	Ice Climbing Level 1	2
ATBO 151	Ski/Snowboard Instructor Level 1	2
ATBO 152	Winter Back Country Travel Level 1	2
ATBO 171	Mountain Bike Skills Level 1	2
Total		6

Note: A student who meets the prerequisites may choose instead to do any elective that is offered to the ATBO diploma students.

Total Credits for Certificate: 33

View official program outline

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Certifications:

In addition to earning a college certificate, you may also be eligible to obtain a variety of recognized outdoor industry certifications. These may include:

• Advanced Wilderness First Aid – Slipstream Wilderness First Aid
• Swiftwater Rescue Technician – Rescue Canada
• Level 1 Ski Instructor – Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance
• Level 1 Snowboard Instructor – Canadian Association of Snowboard Instructors
• Day Canoe Guide – Recreational Canoeing Association of BC
• Level 1 & Assistant Overnight Guide – Sea Kayak Guides Alliance of BC
• Avalanche Skills Training Level 1 & 2 – Avalanche Canada
• Interpretive Specialist – Interpretive Guides Association
• Field Leader Hiking – Outdoor Council of Canada

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Practicum

ATBO students have completed their six week practicum in a variety of work environments, including the following operators:

• Kicking Horse Mountain Resort
• Backroad Adventures BC Inc.
• Three Bars Ranch
• Panorama Resort
• Silver Star Resort
• Golden Sky Bridge
• Tofino Sea Kayaking
• Canadian Mountain Holidays
• Glacier Rafting Ltd.
• University Of Calgary, Outdoor Program Centre
• Reo Rafting Adventures
• Waskesiu Marina Adventure Center
• Parks Canada
• Toby Creek Adventures

ATBO – Year 1 – Required Courses

Students must complete all required courses listed below and a minimum of three elective courses.

Choose three (3) elective courses from the following:

Note: A student who meets the prerequisites may choose instead to do any elective that is offered to the ATBO diploma students.

Academic Requirements:

• Secondary school graduation or equivalent.
• Earned a minimum grade of C+ (65%) in at least 1 of the following:
  • ENST 12 – English Studies 12
  • ENFP 12 – English First Peoples 12
  • ENGL090 – English – Provincial Level

Non-Academic Requirements:

• 19 years of age or older at the start date of the program
• Completion and submission of the ATBO Program Admissions Package, which includes:
  • ATBO Admissions Questionnaire
  • ATBO Physical Fitness & Abilities Agreement
  • ATBO Medical History Questionnaire
  • Medical insurance form
  • General program release and waiver

Tuition and Fees:

For the 2025/26 academic year (2025/SU, 2025/FA, 2026/WI, 2026/SP)

Application Fee:	$30.00
Tuition:	$4,098.27
Lab Fee:	$85.38
Field Fee:	$2,890.64
Ski Pass:	$339.09
Health and Dental Fee:	$240.00
Student Association Fee:	$69.00

_{*Tuition and Fees for domestic students are estimates and are subject to change. Depending on course electives there may be additional lab fees. Tuition and Fees do not include textbook costs or supplies. Tuition fees include student technology fees, student activity fees, and alumni fees. For more information, visit: Tuition and Fees.}

 Textbook Fees:

• Certificate program text book costs are approximately $800.00

Note:

• Tuition fees do not include living expenses. You are responsible for all living expenses.
• If you have applied for student loan funding and have not received confirmation of approval, you must make alternate arrangements for tuition payment.
• Students who are not eligible for government funding may wish to approach private lending institutions to discuss their student lines of credit.

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Additional Costs and Supplies:

The College provides:

• Transportation during all out-trips
• All equipment except as noted on personal list
• Some shelter during out-trips which may include tarps or alpine huts
• Most certification and exam fees
• Free access to college computers and library services
• Seasons Pass at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

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You can expect to incur the following expenses:

• Out-trip Food:
  You are responsible for food and personal maintenance costs during out trips.

• Accommodation:
  You are expected to have your accommodation situation settled by the first day of classes.

Tuition and Fees:

For the 2025/26 academic year (2025/SU, 2025/FA, 2026/WI, 2026/SP)

Application Fee:	$100.00
One-time International Education Fee:	$100.00
Tuition:	$12,971.67
Student Association Fee:	$69.00
Ski Pass:	$339.09
Lab Fee:	$85.38
Field Fee:	$2,890.64
Health and Dental Fee	$240.00
Guard.me Insurance	$270.00

 Textbook Fees:

• Certificate program text book costs are approximately $800.00

Note:

• Tuition fees do not include living expenses. You are responsible for all living expenses.
• If you have applied for student loan funding and have not received confirmation of approval, you must make alternate arrangements for tuition payment.
• Students who are not eligible for government funding may wish to approach private lending institutions to discuss their student lines of credit.

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Additional Costs and Supplies:

The College provides:

• Transportation during all out-trips
• All equipment except as noted on personal list
• Some shelter during out-trips which may include tarps or alpine huts
• Most certification and exam fees
• Free access to college computers and library services
• Seasons Pass at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

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You can expect to incur the following expenses:

• Out-trip Food:
  You are responsible for food and personal maintenance costs during out trips.

• Accommodation:
  You are expected to have your accommodation situation settled by the first day of classes.

As a graduate of the certificate program here are just a few examples of career options available to you:

• Outdoor Sport and Recreational Guide (Assistant) (Lead or guide individuals or groups in such skills as canoeing, rafting, and mountain climbing, be part of ski patrol, a camp counsellor, camp program director, etc.)
• Tour and Travel Guides (Assistant) (Transport or guide individuals on tours of waterways, the backcountry, and more.)
• Park Ranger
• Trail Construction & Maintenance
• Ski/Bike Patrol
• Sea Kayak Guide
• Rafting Guide
• Outdoor Educator
• Small Business Owner
• Bike Guide
• Canoe Guide
• Rafting Guide
• Adventure Park Manager
• Backcountry Hut Custodian
• Snowmobile/ATV Guide
• Hiking Guide
• Climbing Guide
• Backcountry Ski Guide
• Avalanche Instructor

Don Webster, ATBO Program Coordinator

I’ve been teaching at College of the Rockies since 2017. My teaching areas include risk management, sustainable tourism, natural interpretation, environmental education, and the Adventure Tourism industry. In the outdoors, I instruct in wilderness skills, backpacking, avalanche skills training, sea kayaking, and guide training.

My career in the outdoor industry has spanned over 20 years and taken me to all seven continents. I’ve had the opportunity to lead sea kayaking expeditions in the Arctic and Antarctic, deliver adventure guide training sessions in Australia, Chile, and Kenya, and consult on numerous risk and adventure projects both in Canada and abroad. I identify strongly as a professional in Adventure Tourism—it’s been my life’s work. Academically, I hold a Certificate in Adventure Tourism from College of the Rockies, a Diploma in Adventure Guiding from Thompson Rivers University, and a master’s in Environmental Management from Royal Roads University. Technically, I maintain active industry certifications in backpacking, avalanche skills training, sea kayaking, and wilderness travel.

I work hard to run a flipped, engaged classroom. If I can deliver a course outside, I will! Students in my classes should expect to be challenged to participate in discussions and demonstrate their skills through application. Having once been a student at COTR myself, I truly value the benefits of small class sizes and hands-on, experiential learning.

I’ll challenge you to be the best version of yourself—I believe in connecting with each student individually and inspiring you to achieve at a high standard!

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Dave Wan, Program Faculty

I initially earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Melbourne, Australia but spent a lot of my free time with the local SCUBA diving and bushwalking (back packing, rock-climbing, white-water kayaking, and skiing) clubs. I was first drawn to outdoor adventure sports for exactly that reason – the adventure. I also appreciate the challenge, the personal development, and the connection to the outdoors. My passion for outdoor adventure inspired me to complete a post-graduate diploma in Outdoor Education.

I have continued to pursue outdoor adventure because of the friendships and close personal bonds that are developed with others. You are often responsible for each other’s safety and that creates a long-lasting, deeply caring connection. Outdoor adventures became such an important part of my life, after a decade working in the field, I completed a master’s degree in Outdoor Education.

In 2006, I joined the College as coordinator and instructor for the Adventure Tourism Business Operations (ATBO) program, held at the Golden campus. I am very close with my students and get great joy from sharing my love of adventure sports with them and from helping them succeed. If you’re thinking of enrolling in the ATBO program, I look forward to having the opportunity to get to know you.

Away from work, I continue to be active. Adventure sports are what I do for work, what I do for play, and are what I do with my family. I’m exactly where I want to be, doing what I want to do and surrounded by the people I love. Life is good.

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Gideon ‘Montana’ Smith, Computer and Natural Interpretation Instructor

I’ve been working with the Adventure Tourism Business Operations program since 2001, teaching ATBO 107: Natural Interpretation. I also teach COMP 153: Introduction to Data Processing, which I’ve been offering since 2007, as well as a range of Continuing Education classes focused on computer and office application skills. I first began teaching computer skills at College of the Rockies in 1994, and over the years I’ve also taught Adult Basic Education courses in English, math, and science. I’ve led basic literacy classes and worked in student education advising as well. It’s been a rewarding journey supporting learners at all levels and in so many different subject areas.

My academic background includes a college diploma in geology from Cambrian College and a B.A. in archaeology from the University of Calgary. I’ve worked across Canada in field roles involving archaeology, geology, geophysics, and surveying—everywhere from Quebec to British Columbia to Nunavut. For eight years, I worked with the Geological Survey of Canada’s Institute of Sedimentary and Petroleum Geology as a collections curator, joining expeditions to the Rockies and the Canadian high Arctic. I’ve also worked as a professional ski patroller and snow reporter.

I stay engaged with current research in ecology, archaeology, anthropology, and geology. Even in my seventies, I remain active outdoors—hiking, cross-country skiing, sea kayaking, and I especially enjoy glacier ascents.

I rely heavily on visuals in the classroom, using PowerPoint to add depth to lectures and spark curiosity. I love bringing in real-world objects and 3D models to illustrate concepts, and I incorporate movement and body language to make ideas stick. In Natural Interpretation, I take students into the field so they can connect learning directly to the landscape, and I have them lead presentations so they can practice communicating their knowledge with confidence.

I’m a firm believer in lifelong learning—and that we learn best by doing. I do my best to bring that mindset to every class I teach, and I hope my students carry it with them long after the course ends.

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Tamara Dykshoorn

I’ve been instructing and coaching first- and second-year ATBO students since 2016, mainly on backpacking, ski/snowboard touring, and avalanche courses. I’ve taken on these roles casually over the years, and the backpacking course in particular is a highlight of my autumn—we travel through some truly wild and beautiful landscapes. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch students grow throughout the program and then see them thriving in the outdoor community later on.

I’m a certified and registered guide with the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (Hiking and Ski Apprentice), an Avalanche Professional with the Canadian Avalanche Association, and hold certification with the Interpretive Guides Association (Apprentice). I’m also trained in wilderness first aid. Staying current with industry standards is important to me—it keeps my skills sharp and helps me bring relevant, real-world knowledge into the classroom and the field.

I believe strongly in experiential learning. This is a hands-on, positive learning environment where outdoor people often thrive by doing. My approach is built around four key components: experience, conceptualization, reflection, and experimentation.

For student success, I focus on clear, defined goals and outcomes. I believe practicing skills properly leads to safer decisions down the road. I try to stay approachable and available for all learning styles, and I’m convinced that reflection is what makes mountain experiences truly meaningful.

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Hannah Rennie

I’ve been working with the Adventure Tourism Business Operations program since 2018, teaching Rock, Ice, and Alpine field courses. It’s a privilege to help students build their skills and confidence in some of the most dynamic environments out there.

I’m a co-owner of Rock Solid Guides Ltd., a mumma to two little ones, and always excited to be outside. I’m a certified ACMG Alpine Guide, an IRATA Level 3 and SPRAT Level 3 Rope Access Technician, and an OFA Level 3 First Aid Attendant. I started guiding because I love teaching people not just the technical side of climbing, but also helping them experience the emotional growth that comes with pushing their limits and connecting deeply with the natural world.

I’ve been climbing since I was a kid—with my teddy bear clipped to my harness—and that passion has taken me all over the world. I’ve spent years rock climbing, mountaineering, and improving my technical skills. I’ve climbed El Capitan in Yosemite Valley four times, sent 5.12 in five different countries, and love blending techniques from different rock types and climbing styles. I also enjoy industrial rope access work and bring a positive, focused energy to high-risk environments.

These days, I’m balancing life as a mumma with guiding, rope access work, and avalanche safety—never a dull moment!

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Krista Polley

I joined College of the Rockies in 2013 and have been teaching in the Adventure Tourism Business Operations program since 2015. I currently teach English 100 (Academic Writing) and English 248 (Travel Writing) at the Golden campus, and I also offer English 100 and Communications 101 online for the Cranbrook campus. My students come from such diverse backgrounds, and I genuinely enjoy learning about their unique experiences with reading and writing. It makes every class dynamic and meaningful.

When I’m not teaching, you’ll probably find me walking through the forest with my dog, downhill skiing, mountain biking, reading, or cooking something new. My most recent research explored the concept of everyday evil in the fiction of Stephen King—an author I find endlessly fascinating.

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Jamie Whiteside

Since 2010, I’ve called Golden, BC home. I teach part-time in the College of the Rockies’ Adventure Tourism Business Operations (ATBO) and Mountain Adventure Skills Training (MAST) programs, focusing on canoeing, kayaking, backcountry skiing/avalanche safety, and hiking. In the past, I’ve also taught second-year academic courses in business and natural history interpretation. Lately, I’ve been concentrating on the RCABC Expedition Canoe Guide Program, where I help students build the skills and confidence needed to lead in challenging and dynamic environments.

I’m an outdoor enthusiast, guide, and instructor with a deep passion for mountains, rivers, and wilderness travel. My adventures have taken me through more than 30 countries—from cycling around New Zealand to leading trekking and paddling expeditions throughout South and Central America, and even heli-ski guiding in the Himalayas. Much of my guiding career has been spent on iconic Canadian rivers like the Nahanni, Natla-Keele, Burnside, Hood, Mountain, and Broken Skull through Blackfeather Wilderness Expeditions. I also teach instructor courses locally and enjoy mentoring up-and-coming guides.

My certifications include:

• Paddle Canada – Senior Moving Water Instructor & Instructor Trainer
• RCABC – Moving Water, Expedition Guide, and River Rescue Instructor
• ACMG – Ski and Hiking Guide

My instructional style has been shaped by years of working in diverse cultural settings, collaborating with other instructors, and completing my Master’s in Organizational Leadership and Training from Royal Roads University. I encourage experiential learning supported by coaching to help students grow and perform at their best. My blend of academic background and real-world guiding experience allows me to bring a balanced, thoughtful perspective to both the classroom and the field.

My teaching approach emphasizes safety, skill development, and personal growth. Whether you’re learning the fundamentals of moving water, preparing for your own expedition, or stepping into the professional world of outdoor guiding, I’m here to support your journey. The outdoors is a powerful place for learning and self-discovery, and I feel privileged to be a part of that process.

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Carla Demyen

I’ve been instructing in the Adventure Tourism Business Operations program for the past six years, and it’s been a meaningful part of my career in the mountains.

I’m originally from Saskatchewan—Canada’s flattest province—but I’ve now spent more than half my life in the mountains. I moved west in my early twenties and quickly became obsessed with skiing and climbing. Guiding felt like a natural next step as I worked to deepen my skills and experience. In the summer of 2023, I completed my final exam to become an IFMGA Mountain Guide. These days, I work mostly as a heli-ski guide in the winter and freelance as an alpine guide in the summer. Teaching with the college has been a wonderful addition to my guiding life—it gives me the chance to connect with people in our community and pass along knowledge to the next generation of mountain lovers.

Learning through experience and embracing a growth mindset have always resonated with me. I try to model my instruction after the ACMG guides training format: share the information, demonstrate the technique, and then let students explore and build their skills at their own pace. Together with the other instructors, I aim to create a supportive, open environment where students feel confident to learn and grow.

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Merrie-Beth Board

I’ve been working with the Adventure Tourism Business Operations program since 2005.

I’m an internationally certified Mountain Guide based in Golden, BC. I moved to the mountains from Ontario at 19 and started out as a ski instructor in Whistler. That first winter sparked a deep love for mountain landscapes and wilderness adventure. Eventually, I found home in the Canadian Rockies, where I’ve spent the past 20 years climbing alpine, rock, and ice, skiing, guiding, and teaching in the local ranges. Life as a mountain professional is both a dream and a challenge—full of personal growth, humility, and perseverance. It’s a real privilege to be able to share these incredible places with clients and students.

Working with ATBO students is always a pleasure. It’s an honour to be part of their journey—watching skills develop and new possibilities emerge is truly rewarding.

I try to keep everyone engaged in the learning process by meeting students where they’re at and creating opportunities for growth as mountain leaders. I’m especially mindful of supporting those in the early stages of learning to move safely and confidently through mountain environments.

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Kerry Brinkert

I’ve been part of the College of the Rockies’ Adventure Tourism Business Operations program since January 2025, where I teach Cross-Cultural Tourism. I also support students preparing to study abroad by delivering the College’s Global Engagement Certificate through Continuing Education. My role extends to collaborating with Deans and faculty to develop and lead international learning opportunities that have taken students to Andorra, Geneva, Denmark, Jamaica, and Kenya.

My career in international affairs began in the 1990s with Global Affairs Canada and included 14 years in Geneva, Switzerland, where I led the Implementation Support Unit for the 1997 international treaty banning anti-personnel landmines. Since returning to British Columbia in 2015, I’ve served as Manager of International Projects and Partnerships at the College, leading capacity-building initiatives with global partners and helping faculty and staff engage internationally across Africa, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean. I hold an MA in International Affairs from Carleton University and a BA in Political Science from the University of Calgary, and I completed BC’s Provincial Instructor Diploma Program in 2023. I feel deeply fortunate to live on Ktunaxa ɁamakɁis and enjoy skiing, hiking, and reflecting on experiences from over 85 countries I’ve visited.

I bring authenticity into my teaching by connecting classroom concepts with real-world experiences. Whether it’s through simulations or taking students outdoors, I aim to create engaging and meaningful learning environments. I’m especially passionate about supporting students in building intercultural competencies and love designing and leading learning abroad programs that broaden perspectives and build global awareness.

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Austin Bandl

Hi, I’m Austin! I started my journey with the College of the Rockies in Golden, BC, back in 2020, working with the Adventure Tourism Business Operations program. I assist with a variety of whitewater courses and help drive students on field trips. I’ve completed the Adventure Tourism Business Operations Diploma, and I’m a certified Level 3 Swiftwater Rescue Technician, a BCROA licensed rafting trip leader, and a Wilderness First Responder.

When I’m not at the College, you’ll likely find me guiding rafts down the beautiful Kicking Horse River or out on a whitewater kayaking adventure somewhere around British Columbia. I’ve also had the chance to travel to incredible places like Zambia, Chile, Argentina, and the USA to raft and kayak, expanding my horizons and learning from different rivers around the world.

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Jessie Paloposki

I’ve been a part of the ATBO program since 2024, where I teach Principles of Adventure Tourism and Sustainable Tourism and Environmental Stewardship. My goal is to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in the dynamic adventure tourism industry. I emphasize sustainable practices, environmental stewardship, and innovative strategies, encouraging students to explore the balance between adventure tourism growth and conservation. It’s important to me that we develop future leaders who are committed to preserving and celebrating our natural world.

I grew up in rural BC, spending countless hours exploring the forests near my home, which sparked my lifelong love for wild places. This passion led me to become a BC Parks Ranger in 2008, where I spent eight years protecting natural areas and inspiring others to appreciate the outdoors. In 2016, I transitioned to the East Kootenay Invasive Species Council, furthering my expertise in ecosystem management, and in 2020, I began working as a Wildlife Guardian and Interpreter for Parks Canada, sharing my love for wildlife and wilderness with visitors from around the world.

In the summer, you’ll most likely find me kayaking—either whitewater or sea—and in the winter, I’m on the slopes of the Purcell Mountain Range. I also love new adventures with friends and family, both here and abroad.