routesetting education

Beyond competition routesetting work, we are committed to facilitating the development of others in the comp and gym climbing realms in a way that fosters progress of the sport while remaining rooted in climbing spirit and community. Chris has long been a leader in the mentorship of routesetters, and we’re of the mindset that there’s never just one answer in climbing, nor in routesetting and there are often more, and better, questions, than there are definitive answers. Underlying the creativity and unknowns in routesetting, there is also a wealth of knowledge and cultivated instinct to engage with and learn from. From the technical aspects of movement, having an empathetic approach, and the more structure-oriented skills of organization, management, communication and leadership, Thread brings a unique approach.

In workshops and clinics, competition setting and consultations, decades of experience frame opportunities for routesetters to explore and grow, and for organizations to better engage with the craft and their community of routesetters. In 2006, Chris helped create the current USA Climbing Routesetting Committee structure and began developing the curriculum for the first Level 1, and later, Level 2 Routesetting Clinics. He has instructed dozens of these clinics since the mid-2000s and organized over 100, carefully establishing systems of apprenticeship for additional instructors. In his work as the USA Climbing Routesetting Administrator, Chris managed the organization’s routesetting program for over 10 years and on the commercial side, Brad has developed structures, similarly, putting in place gym operational practices that facilitate efficient growth and teamwork, especially for intermediate level Routesetters.

Having driven the educational model for competition routesetters in the US, the tiered structure that the organization utilizes, and fostering commercial routesetting development congruently, we have been at the forefront of structured mentorship in the community. Developing educational and training models, creating opportunities for young climbing professionals, and thoughtfully working behind the scenes as competition climbing evolves, we are passionate about helping others learn and learning from others.

Want to talk workshops?  Give us a shout!