What is Wood Badge? 

Wood Badge is a premier leadership experience that challenges participants to grow, reflect, and lead more effectively. The course pushes you outside your comfort zone while offering valuable perspective on what Scouts experience as they progress through the program. It adds purpose to the time we dedicate to Scouting and equips leaders with skills that make their roles more rewarding and manageable.

And honestly—it’s one of the most enjoyable trainings you’ll ever attend as a Scout leader.

Wood Badge is the advanced leadership course for adult leaders across all programs, including Cub Scouting, Scouts BSA, and Venturing. Its benefits reach far beyond Scouting. Participants are guided by a dedicated team of highly experienced Scouters who encourage growth, collaboration, and success throughout the course.

Through interactive sessions, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Scouting’s aims and methods and learn how to strengthen and improve the program at the unit level. You’ll also discover tools and resources that support you not only in Scouting, but in your professional and personal life. Many leaders find that the leadership and team-building skills gained through Wood Badge translate directly to their careers.

Another lasting benefit is the network you build—connections with fellow Scouters from across the region who become trusted resources, mentors, and friends.

Wood Badge consistently attracts passionate participants and exceptional staff, creating an experience that is both meaningful and energizing. Many leaders describe it as a defining moment in their Scouting journey and a highlight of their service.

Wood Badge is truly time well invested. Please help spread the word within your units—this is Scouting America’s highest level of leadership training for both volunteers and professionals, and it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.

Who should attend Wood Badge?

ALL SCOUTERS ARE WELCOME, regardless of scouting experience. Wood Badge is designed to meet the advanced leadership needs of all Scouters. 

Scholarships available in limited quantity on a case-by-case basis. Contact Luke Arnold, 505-999-9733 laarnold@hotmail.com if you are interested. Please refrain from applying if you already are receiving tuition assistance from your unit.