There is just one week left to register for Instructor and Instructor Trainer Updates at ACA PaddleFest!
Great instruction goes beyond teaching skills—it’s rooted in leadership. This October at ACA PaddleFest, Instructor and IT Updates are your opportunity to deepen your leadership skills and strengthen your presence both on and off the water.
Through skills review and refinement, real-world scenarios, peer discussion, and actionable tools, you’ll explore new ways to deliver ACA curriculum and lead with clarity, confidence, and adaptability—whether you’re guiding a group, mentoring new instructors, or managing dynamic environments.
These updates will also dive into decision-making, group management strategies, and ways to reinforce your role as a trusted leader in the paddling community.
📅 Important: Registration closes October 3 — just one week away!
Schedule & Disciplines
Level 1–2 Instructor & IT Updates
🕐 Friday, October 17 (1:00 PM) – Saturday, October 18 (6:00 PM)
- Introduction to Canoeing
- Canoe Touring
- River Canoe
- Introduction to Kayaking
- Kayak Touring (Coastal)
- River Kayak
- Introduction to SUP
- Essentials of SUP
Level 3–5 Instructor & IT Updates
🕐 Friday, October 17 (1:00 PM) – Sunday, October 19 (6:00 PM)
- Whitewater Canoe
- Whitewater Kayak
- Whitewater SUP
- Whitewater Rafting
Cost: $175
Please note: This is not an upgrade opportunity—you must update at the level of certification you currently hold (or lower).
Don’t miss your chance to stay current, grow your leadership, and connect with the ACA instructional community.
See you in Charlotte!
Plan Your Stay in Charlotte
Heading to Charlotte for the first-ever ACA PaddleFest and an Instructor or IT Update? We’ve secured a variety of lodging options—from hotels close to the Whitewater Center to a scenic campground—for your convenience. Be sure to book early, as reservation deadlines are approaching!
View ACA PaddleFest Accommodations Options
Satellite Event – Surf Kayaking Instructor Certification & Updates
We’re excited to announce a PaddleFest satellite event – Surf Kayak Boot Camp – a unique and dynamic event featuring incredible days of surf kayaking skill-building, fun, and community! Whether you’re looking to level up your surf kayak skills, start your instructor certification journey, or just have an epic weekend on the water, there’s something for everyone.
📍 October 23–27, 2025 | Tybee Island, Georgia
This event is made possible through partnership with the ACA Surf Kayak Committee and Savannah Canoe & Kayak.
