Equinox Guiding Service Launches Nation’s First High School SPI Program

Jun 15

Mid Cost school of Technology Outdoor Leadership

Camden, Maine becomes national leader in youth climbing education and workforce development

Camden, ME — Equinox Guiding Service is proud to announce a national first: a group of high school students from the Mid-Coast School of Technology (MCST) has completed professional training toward their AMGA Single Pitch Instructor (SPI) certification—the gold standard in climbing instruction. This groundbreaking initiative marks the first known SPI training program in the United States specifically designed for high school students.

“This isn’t just about climbing,” said Noah Kleiner, owner of Equinox and certified SPI provider. “It’s about mentorship, workforce development, and giving young people access to real leadership opportunities in the outdoors.”

A Purpose-Driven Partnership

The program was launched in collaboration with MCST’s Outdoor Leadership Program, led by instructor Seth Walton. Students in the program gain hands-on experience in technical outdoor disciplines including climbing, paddling, navigation, and wilderness medicine. In partnership with Equinox, they spent the spring training side-by-side with AMGA-certified instructors on real rock in Camden Hills.

Importantly, this SPI training course was partially supported by the Maine Tourism Association’s “Tourism for ME” workforce development program, a state-funded initiative that strengthens career pathways in Maine’s tourism and outdoor recreation industries.

“Our students are getting industry-level training, real-time mentorship, and a clear pathway into the guiding world,” said Walton. “They’re not just learning how to climb—they’re learning how to lead.”

What Sets This Program Apart?

Traditionally, SPI certification is pursued by adults already working in outdoor education or guiding. By bringing this training to high school students, Equinox and MCST are removing barriers and giving younger climbers a head start into meaningful careers in outdoor recreation.

Key outcomes of the program:

Students train on real terrain in Camden Hills, one of the Northeast’s most accessible and scenic climbing areas
Participants work directly with AMGA-certified SPI instructors
Students develop technical rope skills, terrain assessment, client care, and leadership techniques
Several students have already completed their SPI course or are preparing for the AMGA SPI assessment

Why It Matters—For Camden and the Industry

Camden may be known for its harbor views and coastal charm, but it’s quickly becoming a hub for professional climbing instruction and youth outdoor leadership.

“This program is changing lives,” said Kleiner. “We’re building a stronger climbing community—one that’s rooted in safety, stewardship, and skill—and giving students a real shot at a future in guiding. And we’re doing it right here in Midcoast Maine.”

This initiative also highlights a new model for education-industry collaboration—showing how local partnerships, supported by statewide funding initiatives like “Tourism for ME,” can create high-impact, real-world training that sets students up for long-term success.

What’s Next?

Equinox and MCST plan to expand the program in 2025 and are already in discussion with other schools and community partners interested in launching similar initiatives.

“We hope this becomes a blueprint for youth training in outdoor leadership,” said Kleiner. “The more we invest in young people, the stronger and safer our industry becomes.”

For students, educators, parents, or organizations interested in learning more about youth climbing programs, AMGA SPI certification, or building an educational partnership, Equinox Guiding Service is eager to connect.