The key ingredients for a safe and successful outdoor, adventure education program are well-trained, experienced and mature staff; a well designed program and activities backed up by proven safety policies; state-of-the-art equipment; and properly prepared members.
Each TAASC unit has a salaried program director. Each program director is typically over age 30; has a real interest in youth work; maintains high energy and a sense of humor; has experience and training in a wide variety of outdoor pursuits; has been trained in working with the issues of young people; has worked for Outward Bound or equivalent programs for years; is certified in Wilderness First Aid; and is a creative educator who serves as a solid role model for the members.
Senior youth members gradually develop into outdoor instructors and can serve in similar roles as assistant instructors to the Program Director as well as take on responsibilities for designing and leading programs for others with supervision. Many parents have interests and skills that can be developed as well to serve as resources to the program.