A trained leader is knowledgeable and more confident in the role being performed. The knowledge and confidence of a trained leader are quickly sensed by others. Trained leaders impact the quality of programs, leader tenure, youth tenure, and a whole lot more. [Guide to Leader Training, page 5]
Aquatic Training
The goal of aquatics in Scouting is “every Scout a swimmer” This training empowers leaders to run aquatic activities safely.
Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO)
This one-and-a-half day course is designed as an introduction to the Cub Scout outdoor program for leaders interested in adding a camping component to their Pack activities. BALOO training consists of an online pre-requisite component in addition to an overnight hands on practical. Completion of this course is mandatory for a MINIMUM OF ONE adult on a Pack over-nighter.
Climbing Training Courses
There is inherent risk in climbing and rappelling. With proper training and management, that risk can be minimized.
Den Chief Training
This is a training for Den Chiefs: Pack, District, and Council Trainers; Den Leaders, Cubmasters; Scoutmasters, Varsity Coaches, and Venturing Crew Advisors. This training teaches the Den Chief to effectively assist the Den Leader with planning and conducting Den Meetings. Adult leaders are encouraged to attend the training to understand the role of this position.
Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS)
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 for the First Class rank. Along with Scoutmaster Specifics this course is required of all direct contact leaders registered in Scout Troops and Teams, in order to be considered “trained”.
Leave No Trace Training
Participants learn about the seven principles of Leave No Trace as well as simple ways to reduce their negative impacts on the natural environment. Through interactive activities, they also learn to educate others about low-impact outdoor practices.
Trainer's Edge
The purpose of the Trainer’s EDGE course is to provide and help develop the platform skills of a trainer. With a focus on the participant, it is meant to raise the level of skill a trainer brings to a staff experience. Only practice can polish these skills, but this course is intended to “train the trainer” on behaviors and resources while offering hands‐on experience in methods and media.
Target and Range Sports
Scouting America offers range and target activities to teach firearm safety and introduce youth to shooting sports. The activities are age-appropriate and developed through planned, supervised programs. The goal is to create a positive shooting experience for each youth.
Wilderness First Aid
BSA Wilderness First Aid Basics is for back country camping where professional emergency care is more than 1 hour away. This course combines classroom lecture, skills practice, and realistic scenarios to teach assessment, basic and advanced first aid skills and decision making, extended care and transport.
Wood Badge
Wood Badge is Scouting’s premier training course providing in-depth training in leadership skills and group dynamics. It is designed to meet the needs for all Cub Scout, Scouts BSA, and Venturing leaders as well as Council and District leaders and Scouting professionals.
Additional Training
| Dates | Course | Host Council (Training Location) | Cost | Registration Link | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | April 11-13, 2025 | University of Scouting | Sam Houston Area Council (Camp Strake) | $25 - ? | Register |
 | May 3-4, 2025 | Chainsaw Training | Alamo Area Council (Bear Creek Scout Camp) | ? | Register |
| August 9-10, 2025 | Chainsaw Training | Alamo Area Council (Mays Family Scout Ranch) | ? | Register |
 | September 6, 2025 | Angler Educaton | Alamo Area Council (McGimsey Scout Park) | ? | Register |
| Sept 13-14, 2025 | BSA Chain Saw Basic Training Course | Longhorn Council (Sid Richardson Scout Ranch) | $50 | Register |
| Sept 14-15, 2025 | BSA Chain Saw Basic Training Course | Longhorn Council (Sid Richardson Scout Ranch) | $50 | Register |
 | November 1, 2025 | University of Scouting | Circle Ten Council (Camp Wisdom) | ? | Register |
 | January 24, 2026 | University of Scouting | Capitol Area Council (Concordia University) | $20 | Register |