MEGA Training offers you the chance to take required training courses like Scoutmaster Leader-Specific Training, Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS), or Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO). There are also optional courses, including Chaplain Training, Swimming and Water Rescue, Paddle Craft Safety, and more.

Scouts BSA Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills

Working as patrols, this hands-on course provides adult leaders the practical outdoor skills they need to lead Scouts in the out-of-doors. Upon completion, leaders should feel comfortable teaching Scouts the basic skills required to obtain the First Class rank. Along with Scoutmaster Specifics (online), this course is required of all direct contact leaders registered in Scouts BSA Troops to be considered “trained”. 

Top 10 Benefits of Taking IOLS

• Build confidence in leading campouts and outdoor adventures
• Master the Patrol Method and youth-led troop structure
• Learn and practice essential Scout skills tied to advancement
• Develop effective teaching and coaching techniques for youth leaders
• Network and collaborate with fellow Scoutmasters and ASMs
• Understand safety standards and risk management in outdoor settings
• Experience hands-on, practical training—not just theory
• Walk away with ready-to-implement program ideas for your unit
• Fulfill position-specific training requirements
• Reignite your passion for Scouting through an engaging, outdoor experience

Class Info

• Friday Check-in: 6pm at at the black truck in front of Commissioners Camp.  Please park in the main parking lot and hike down to Commissioners Camp. Please make sure you eat dinner on the way in to Lost Pines.
• Saturday: departure between 5pm and 8pm depending on length of discussions.
• As a requirement for the class, you must complete the Online Training at least 2 weeks prior to taking the class.   At two weeks before the class, we will be checking for both the online training and proof of Scouting America membership, and reaching out to anyone who has not completed either of these. 

Paperwork Needs

BSA camping rules: All adults staying overnight must have a current Safeguarding Youth Training certificate and must be registered with Scouting America in an adult fee-required position effective September 1, 2023.

• For every participant: bring a paper copy of your Scouting America Medical form parts A&B.
• For every participant: bring a paper copy of your Scouting America registration for every participant. 
• For all adults: bring a paper copy proof of unexpired SYT and your current Scouting America Leader Registration.

See https://www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/gss/gss01/ for more information.