Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS)

Dates: Friday, November 7, 2025 (6:30 PM) – Saturday, November 8, 2025 (5:00 PM)
Location: Crandall Shelter (next to Schiewetz Leadership Training Center)
Instructor: James Ridgeway
Cost: $25 (includes meals and program materials)

Meals Provided:

• Friday night: Cracker Barrel (snack)
• Saturday: Breakfast & Lunch

Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS) gives adult leaders the practical knowledge they need to help Scouts learn essential outdoor skills. The course follows the Scout Handbook and rank advancement requirements, covering skills from Tenderfoot through First Class.

This course is required training for all Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters, and strongly encouraged for any adult who plans to participate in campouts. Whether you are new to Scouting or have years of outdoor experience, IOLS will help you feel confident teaching and supervising Scouts in outdoor skills.

Participants will camp overnight in their own tents and should bring a full personal packing list. Most of the training will take place outdoors, so come prepared for the weather and being outside throughout the day.

IOLS Overnight Packing List

• Tent, ground tarp, and stakes
• Sleeping bag & pad
• Flashlight or headlamp
• Mess kit (plate, cup, utensils) & water bottle
• Weather-appropriate clothing (layers, hat, gloves)
• Sturdy shoes/boots + extra socks
• Rain gear
• Toiletries & medications
• Camp chair
• Notebook & pen/pencil
• Small backpack/day pack

Optional but Helpful:

• Extra blanket
• Hand warmers
• Mug with lid
• Pocketknife or multitool