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Introduction to Weather.

Introduction to Weather provides foundational knowledge for understanding weather in mountainous environments and its connection to snow and avalanche conditions. Students learn to access and interpret weather data, forecasts, and online resources using the forecast funnel approach, moving from large-scale weather patterns to local conditions. 


The course is the first of two weather courses in the CAA’s training program and provides the foundation for Advanced Weather. It is suitable for anyone working in avalanche operations or those looking to build or refresh their understanding of mountain weather. 

Contact Student Services for more info.

The Introduction to Weather course is offered in two formats: 

  • 2-day classroom course with online pre-course preparation. 
  • 8-week online course delivered through Moodle and Zoom.  

The online format is primarily self-directed, with weekly instructor-led Zoom sessions and approximately 4–6 hours of study per week in addition to the scheduled sessions. Attendance at a minimum of five of eight Zoom sessions is required. All Zoom sessions are recorded and made available to students who are unable to attend a particular session.

In the classroom format, students come prepared to spend the full days inside and take notes during presentations with a laptop or pen and paper.

For more details, including learning objectives and assessment information, download the course outline.

Recommended (NOT required):

In-person course fees:
Registration Fee: $125.00 (Non-refundable)
Tuition: $469.00
Total: $594.00

Online course fees:
Registration Fee: $125.00 (Non-refundable)
Tuition: $375.00
Total: $500.00

Classroom format
Upon registration, students will receive access to a course-specific logistics folder with information about the course, required preparation, and learning resources. In-person students must complete the online pre-course, including approximately 20 hours of pre-course readings and questions, before the course begins.

Online format
Online students require a computer or tablet, reliable high-speed internet, a headset with microphone and speakers, and a webcam.

Student Resources

Please refer to the Refund and Cancellation Policy.

All student tuitions, except online, private and funded courses, are insured through the A.W.G Dewar Tuition Refund Plan. Please review the policy overview to better understand the coverage and its limitations. To initiate a tuition insurance claim, contact Student Service: studentservices@avalancheassociation.ca or 604-757-2113.

CAA partner, Acera Insurance, offers Industry Training Program students optional trip cancellation/interruption insurance for hut fees. To request a quote or purchase a policy online, get a quote from Acera. If you have further questions about coverage, contact travel@acera.ca or 1.877.542.8577 or 1.250.542.8577. 

There are several funding opportunities available to ITP students. Visit the Scholarships and Grants page to learn more.

For most courses, students will receive a digital copy of the course manual upon registration.

Students who prefer a hard copy can purchase course manuals through Kindle Direct Publishing. Manuals ship directly to students and typically arrive within 1–2 weeks.

The Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) is a process that allows individuals to gain recognition for their prior learning. The learning may be formal, informal, or experiential. The PLA process provides a template for determining whether an applicant has the training and experience necessary to:

a) Waive a CAA course prerequisite; or
b) Earn a CAA course certificate through equivalency

For more information visit our Prior Learning Assessment page  

Students are required to read and agree to the CAA Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, Assumption of Risk and Indemnity Agreement (the “Release of Liability and Waiver”) as a condition of participating in each course/retest. By signing, you will waive or give up certain legal rights, including the right to sue for negligence, breach of contract, or breach of the Occupiers Liability Act or claim compensation following an accident. The Release of Liability and Waiver will be available for completion at the beginning of each course/retest. If the Release of Liability and Waiver is not completed, the student will not be permitted to participate in the course/retest, and a refund will be provided. A copy of the Release of Liability and Waiver (2 pages) is available for review below. PLEASE READ THE WAIVER CAREFULLY before registering for a course/retest.

Registration is now open.

Upcoming Sessions

  • Date: Oct 5, 2026 – Nov 30, 2026
    Location: Online
    Price: $500.00
    Join the waitlist
  • Date: Oct 17, 2026 – Oct 18, 2026
    Location: Revelstoke, British Columbia
    Price: $594.00
    Register Now
  • Date: Nov 14, 2026 – Nov 15, 2026
    Location: Golden, British Columbia
    Price: $594.00
    Register Now
  • Date: May 1, 2027 – May 2, 2027
    Location: Penticton, British Columbia
    Price: Course Fees: $594.00 Registration opens on this site on June 25 at 10:00 AM Pacific Time.
    Register Now

No training sessions available for this program.

What our community is saying

  • Can’t thank them enough

    The instructors were very helpful with any question we had. They made a very comfortable and productive environment.
    AvSAR L1 Student

  • Amazing instructor

    I’m so thankful I had such amazing instructors that taught the course wonderfully. You could feel their passion when sharing their knowledge and experiences. They put a lot of effort into delivering a fantastic course. I am very satisfied with my experience and can’t wait to further my learning with the CAA. Thank you
    Ops 1 student

  • Very enjoyable

    The course was very enjoyable, educationally beneficial and a positive learning environment.
    AvSAR L2 Student

  • Thank you

    I can’t thank you all enough!
    What a great learning experience.
    Ops 2 Student

  • Fantastic instructors

    I would like to recognize the instructors for providing exceptional training. They are fantastic at breaking down processes and details to support learning every step of the way. Their passion for education made the experience fantastic. Thank you also to the office staff for their assistance and timely responses. You are all wicked, and I sincerely appreciate the energy and work you bring to the CAA and its students.
    Ops 2 Student