What is Wood Badge? 

Reflecting the best of nearly a century of Scouting experience, Wood Badge draws upon the most current leadership models used by corporate America, academic circles, and successful organizations throughout the country. Wood Badge training was begun by Baden Powell in 1919 as a way to ensure that the leaders of Scout troops were properly trained. Since then, Wood Badge has been held worldwide, providing advanced leadership training to thousands of Scout leaders. Wood Badge builds upon the best traditions and experiences of the Boy Scouts of America and also draws from a wide range of courses within and beyond the bounds of Scouting to present the latest in leadership theory and team development.

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. 

To attend a Wood Badge course, individuals must: 

1. Be registered members of the Boy Scouts of America. (Youth 18 and older may attend as long as the appropriate Youth Protection guidelines are followed. They do not need to be registered in an adult leadership role.) 

2. Have completed the basic training courses for their Scouting position. 

3. Be capable of functioning safely in an outdoor environment. All participants are required to complete parts A, B, and C or the Annual Health and Medical Record form.

Why attend Wood Badge? 

By taking Wood Badge, Scouters will acquire valuable tools such as listening, communicating, conflict management, project planning, and leading change. Participants will better learn to understand and appreciate diversity and differences in our society. They will learn skills that will make them a better Scout leader. Units with trained leaders are able to deliver an improved program, and a more meaningful experience for the youth Scouting serves. 

By attending Wood Badge, the participants will internalize the five themes of Wood Badge: Living the Values, Growing, Connecting, Guiding, and Empowering.