Climbing Wall Association (CWA) Certifications

The CWA Certification Program’s goal is to increase professionalism, quality of service, and reduce risk in the indoor climbing industry.

Climbing Wall Instructor (CWI)

CWI Level 1

The prerequisite to join our CWI Level 1 course you must be 16 yrs of age and have some climbing experience. The course is offered in a blended format with online content followed by a skills assessment.

Successful completion of the certification prepares the candidate for these roles and responsibilities in an indoor climbing facility:

  • Maintain the requirements of certification as outlined in the Certification Program Policy Manual
  • Comply with CWI Certification Standard practices as outlined in the student manual
  • Act as a climbing wall worker offering orientations, and monitoring climbing activities

CWI Level 2

With maturing to 18 yrs of age, climbing 5.8 over 20 top rope climbing outings and the practice belaying with an assisted belay device and a passive belay device, a CWI Level 1 certificant can register for the CWI Level 2 course. The CWI Level 2 is offered in a blended learning format with online content and demonstration of both technical skills and instructional skills.

Once certified, a CWI Level 2 candidate can fulfill these roles and responsibilities:

  • All responsibilities of Level 1
  • Use equipment that meets the CWA Certification Standard for climbing activities
  • Cultivate an instructional environment that cultivates trust and learning.
  • Use appropriate communication skills and instructional skills to prepare climbers
  • Act as a climbing facility monitor, offer orientations, belay checks, and orientations for top rope climbing

CWI Level 3

When a CWI Level 2 certificant has 40 lead climbing outings and progresses to climbing 5.9, the certificant is ready for the CWI Level 3 course. The course is delivered in a blended learning format with an assessment of the knowledge, technical skills, instructional skills, and the ability to make sound judgments.

These are the roles and responsibilities for all individuals certified at CWI Level 3:

  • All responsibilities of Levels 1 and 2
  • Act as a climbing facility monitor, offer orientations, belay checks, and orientations for lead climbing

All applicants must contact our CWI Provider before signing up. Please reach out via email.

Email