Guides in Training
The Leadership Pathway at R.A.D.
Join Our Epic Mission!
Not just another summer. This is where campers become leaders.
The Guides in Training program is a senior-level alumni track for returning R.A.D. campers ages 14–17 who are ready to take the next step. G.I.T.s assist professional guides, build real leadership skills, and experience the behind-the-scenes responsibility that makes R.A.D. Adventures run.
This is not a job.
It is a leadership apprenticeship.
Who This Is For?
The G.I.T. program is designed for:
R.A.D. alumni ages 14–17
Campers who have aged out of traditional programs
Teens who want more responsibility
Future leaders who may one day become R.A.D. Guides
If you have grown up at R.A.D., this is your next chapter.
Career Pathway
The first step to being a Guide. This isn't just fun; it's job training. Many of our long time staff started right here in the G.I.T. program.
Mentorship
Learn from the pros. G.I.T.s are paired with veteran R.A.D. Guides to shadow real days, learning group management, risk assessment, and conflict resolution in the field.
Real Responsibility
We put you to work. G.I.T.s assist with van loading, headcounts, and leading games, building genuine leadership experience for college applications or resumes.
Skill Certification
Walk away with hard skills. Participants learn the basics of wilderness safety, Leave No Trace ethics, and professional child care standards.
What G.I.T.s Actually Do
This is hands-on leadership experience.
G.I.T.s assist guides with:
Van loading and gear checks
Headcounts and group management
Leading games and activities
Modeling Leave No Trace practices
Supporting younger campers during transitions
You are not observing. You are participating.
The Weekly Structure
Daily Schedule
7:30 AM – 4:15 PM
G.I.T.s operate on a slightly extended schedule to support morning prep and end-of-day wrap-up.
Wednesday: Teen Adventure Day
This is your day. G.I.T.s head out on their own high-adventure expedition separate from younger campers. These trips are designed to challenge, bond, and grow leadership within the teen cohort.
Thursday: Early Childhood Rotation
G.I.T.s rotate into the Sprouts program (ages 4–6) to assist with early childhood group management. This is where patience, communication, and leadership are sharpened.
You will experience both high adventure and high responsibility.
Training & Expectations
Mandatory Training Day
June 20, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
This full-day training covers:
Van systems and maintenance basics
Group management techniques
Risk assessment
Safety protocols
Expectations and leadership standards
Attendance is required to participate.
Policies & Professional Standards
G.I.T.s operate differently than campers.
Phones
Phones are permitted but strictly for Photography or Using the Gaia topography app. No social scrolling during program hours.
Uniform
At least one piece of official R.A.D. apparel must be worn daily.
Role Status
This is a non-paid volunteer leadership role. Participation is considered programmatic attendance and mentorship, not employment.
Application Process
Entry into the G.I.T. program requires a formal application.
Applicants must submit:
Completed G.I.T. Application Form
A Letter of Intent (1,000-word maximum)
The letter should explain:
Why you want to be a G.I.T.
What leadership means to you
How R.A.D. has impacted you
Download 2026 G.I.T. Application
Why This Matters
Many of our long-term staff started as G.I.T.s.
This program is the first step in the R.A.D. leadership pipeline. It builds confidence, responsibility, and real-world skills that translate into future employment, college applications, and beyond.
More importantly, it keeps you connected to the community that helped shape you.
Ready to Step Up?
If you are ready to move from camper to leader, apply now and begin your next chapter at R.A.D.