Instructional Philosophy
river professionals
Paddling whitewater is so much more than running rapids, making moves, and rolling back upright. To us, being on the river is the whole package; it makes us focus, think, visualize, and communicate, as well as demands precision and equanimity in a dynamic environment. That is why paddling is so much fun! Whitewater Attainment programs reflect this whitewater philosophy. Our immersive approach to instruction focuses on technical skills and thinking skills such as planning, communication, and risk management for recreational kayakers and all river professionals.
Locations
Upper Colorado River (Colorado)
Combining beauty and quality class II-III rapids, the Upper Colorado River is our primary venue for beginner and intermediate kayak instruction.
Upper Colorado River courses are made possible directly through Whitewater Attainment and our highly qualified professional instructors.
Rio Grande River (New Mexico)
Flowing through the alluring southwest landscapes and steep-walled gorges, the Rio Grande is another exceptional instructional setting with class II-IV rapids.
Rio Grande River courses are made possible through our partnership with New Mexico River Adventures.
Arkansas River (Colorado)
With some of the most classic and scenic whitewater sections in the State of Colorado, the Arkansas River is an extraordinary venue for intermediate and advanced kayakers to continue progressing their boating skills.
Arkansas River courses are made possible through our partnership with Canyon River Instruction.
Instructors
Tommy Gram
Owner & ACA Instructor Trainer Educator (ITE)
Tommy has been teaching Kayaking, Swiftwater Rescue, and Wilderness Medicine full-time for over a decade and is passionate about showing others how to have fun and be safe outdoors. Tommy began whitewater canoeing and kayaking at a young age and has had the opportunity to gain experience in many whitewater paddling disciplines, including; Slalom, Freestyle, River Running, and Creek Boating.
These experiences led to a career in traveling and competing as a sponsored athlete. Then, Tommy settled down in Colorado and fell into the world of outdoor education. When not in his kayak, he can be found backcountry skiing in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. In the winter, Tommy is the Lead Backcountry Ski Guide, AIARE Avalanche Educator, Operations Director, and Co-Owner of Buena Vista Mountain Adventures (BVMA).
Regardless of the season, Tommy is outside, teaching others how to enjoy the outdoors safely.
Certifications
American Canoe Association (ACA) L4 Whitewater Kayak Instructor Trainer Educator
American Canoe Association (ACA) L4 Swiftwater Rescue Instructor Trainer Educator
American Canoe Association (ACA) L4 Packrafting Instructor Trainer Educator
American Canoe Association (ACA) L5 Advanced Whitewater Kayak Instructor Trainer
National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) & Colorado State Licensed Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
SOLO Wilderness Emergency Medical Technical (W-EMT)
SOLO Wilderness Medical Course Instructor
American Red Cross (ARC) CPR & BLS Instructor
American Avalanche Association (A3) Pro 1 & Pro 2 Certified
American Institute of Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE) Avalanche Course Leader