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Welcome Mission Statement Professionalism MAS Instructors & Guides

Aaron & Kimi Johnson Owners & Guides

MAS operates a wide range of programs in Northern California. Rock climbing is the emphasis during the summer. Winter storms signal the beginning of our telemark ski school, avalanche education, and backcountry ski/snowboard and snowshoe adventures.  When the days start to get a longer we begin mountaineering programs which last from early spring to mid-summer at which time the rock climbing programs are already in full swing.  Its a busy lifestyle with many changes, but somebody has got to do it.  We hope to see you out there.

• To provide exceptional mountaineering instruction and finely crafted adventures which offer an opportunity for retreat and renewal.
• To create a community where relationships are based on integrity, cooperation and trust; where work is sustainable, meaningful and rewarding and personal growth is encouraged through learning and communication.
• To nurture an appreciation for wild places and develop a sense of stewardship for our surroundings.
• To lead by example.

MAS is committed to providing the highest level customer satisfaction.  Through training, certification, reviews and strict hiring guidelines, MAS is able to offer a level of professionalism which surpasses the industry standard. MAS prides itself in consistently exceeding expectations and is proud to have a high rate of returning customers (88%).

MAS is accredited by the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA).  AMGA Accreditation is a thorough review of business policies and field practices.  This means that MAS is fully insured, holds the appropriate special use permits with land managers, and hires instructors that are properly trained and hold professional medical certifications.  MAS is also required to hold regular staff training's and peer reviews.

The AMGA sets the professional standards for climbing guides in the U.S., a standard recognized internationally. MAS supports the AMGA in raising the professional standards of guiding in this country.

All MAS guides and instructors are Wilderness First Responder WFR) certified by the Wilderness Medicine Institute (WMI).  This intensive course is 80 hours of "real-life" scenarios, lectures and tests.  WFR is that baseline medical certification for MAS.

MAS avalanche programs use the material and standards set by AIARE (American Institute of Avalanche Research and Education). AIARE has become the industry leader in avalanche education and is recognized internationally.

All MAS telemark instructors are certified by the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA). The PSIA is the leader in developing skills-based, student centered ski instruction and is recognized internationally.  In addition MAS requires all telemark ski school staff to attend and participate in regular trainings at the ski resort and in backcountry.

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