INSTRUCTOR DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM ANNOUNCED AT SSA CONVENTION

In the March “Instructors’ Corner” entitled “Flight Instructors, a Vanishing Breed” I mentioned a new program for instructors that would be introduced at the SSA National Convention in Albuquerque. I am happy to report that the SSA Board of Directors approved this new program for instructor recognition and reward. We are calling this new program the “SSAI Master Instructor Program”. I have volunteered to head up the initial organizational process for this program.

The SSAI Master Instructor program is based on three premises. First we need more instructors who can and will teach cross-country soaring to our members. Our new program will create a hierarchical designation of SSAIs based on teaching cross-country. Those instructors who teach cross-country soaring on a regular basis will be designated as SSAI Master Instructors. The exact criteria for qualification as an SSAI Master Instructor have not yet been finalized. Those instructors who do qualify will be given their SSA membership free.

The second premise of the program is that there needs to be a system in place whereby SSAIs can get training to move up to the SSAI Master Instructor level. To accomplish this piece of the program plans are underway to operate cross-country camps for SSAIs. Participants must already be cross-country pilots (hold at least a silver badge and fly cross-country on a somewhat regular basis). The SSA plans to operate one such camp in 2000 and at least two in 2001. The site is yet to be determined. Additionally the SSA will subsidize these camps for the SSAIs. The exact level of subsidy is still unknown.

The final premise of the program is that the SSA needs to attract more new SSAIs. Plans are for the SSA to become more proactive in the area of SSAI recognition both in the Soaring magazine and with annual awards. Also, the SSA plans to provide substantial website support for the SSAIs both with general information and with learning opportunities. Finally, the SSA will give a 50% discount on SSA membership dues to those SSAIs who are active in the ABC and Bronze Badge program. To qualify for the discount an SSAI must award at least 10 badges per year.

That’s the program in a nutshell. There are still a lot of details to be worked out but I believe we are on the right track. Any comments for improving the program or just general thoughts about the program are welcome. I’ll keep you updated as we finalize the various pieces of the program.

Fly Safely and Have FUN!

Frank Reid

Bermuda High Soaring