Meet the Instructors:

We've combed all over the state of Virginia for some of the best Instructors this area has to offer.  All of our Instructors have a depth of knowledge that helps them create a fun, safe learning environment. 

They are also always looking to better themselves.  Whenever and wherever training is available, they go to learn more, to bring those lessons they've learned back to the Virginia Outdoor Center. 

All “on water” Instructors are certified, in their discipline, by the American Canoe Association.  Also, all Virginia Outdoor Center Instructors are certified by the American Red Cross in advanced CPR. 

(So on to the bio's.....)

John Garman has been an instructor since 1995, and is the Director of Instruction at the VOC.  Certified by the American Canoe Association as a White Water Kayak Instructor and an Open Canoe Level 4 White Water Instructor Trainer. John is also a Virginia State EMT, a Wilderness First Responder, and Lead Rock Climbing Instructor.  John has the teaching expertise to bring fun and learning to every outdoor experience.   If you want to throw down in your decked boat, paddle the backcountry in your open boat, or hand jam your way to the top of a cliff, John can help you out.

Ben Morton  has been working at the VOC since 2005, and is now the VOC's full time manager.  Ben is a graduate of the Adventure Sports Institute at Garrett College and is now a adjunct instructor for ASI.  Certified by the American Canoe Association as a Level 3 Coastal Kayak Instructor, Level 3 Solo Canoe Instructor, Level 4 Tandem Canoe Instructor, Level 4 White Water Kayak Instructor, and in Swift Water Rescue. Ben has also trained with Seneca Rocks Mt. Guides, is a certified Wilderness First Responder, and Leave No Trace Trainer.  If your looking to get outside for a laid back time or pure epicosity find Ben at the VOC.

Mike Robinson has been involved with teaching various skills to youth since 1984.  He's been teaching basic rock climbing for 13 years and has been teaching ice climbing for 9 years.  He's climbed in the following places, Seneca, the New, Great Falls, other small areas in Va., The Gunks, Catskills, Adirondacks, New Hampshire, Vermont, Nevada(Red Rocks), California, and Wyoming and South Dakota.  He has over 100 hours of instruction by  AMGA guides in rock climbing, ice climbing, and self rescue.   Mike is an avid paddler, backpacker, skiier, snowboarder and snowshoer.