Rescue Boat Operator
Sandoval County, NM • March 11, 2026

Full Dates: March 11, 2026 – March 11, 2026
Duration: 1.5 days (12 hours)
Price: $0

Private course, contact for availability.

Course Description

The Rescue Boat Operator course is suitable for people with little or no powerboat experience who wish to attain an inland boat handling and rescue boat capability on flat or slow moving water.

Location and Logistics

Sandoval County FD
301 Piedra Lisa Rd
Bernalillo, NM 87004
United States

Lead Instructor

KC Bess

KC grew up in the wilds of southern Utah, scrambling on rocks and shooting guns with friends in the lava fields. As a young adult, he learned to channel that outdoor energy into safer practices, such as sport and trad climbing throughout the western US. Climbing led him to the Teton and Wind River Ranges of Wyoming and opened the door to river running and the world of professional guiding. KC has been working as a guide on the Snake River for 20 years. During this time he has also been a risk and operations manager. During this time, KC has run rivers and led expeditions throughout the western United States, Canada, and New Zealand. Outside of work, KC serves as a member of the Teton County Search and Rescue Team and as a Team Rubicon member, giving him valuable skills and experience as a technical rescuer. KC has worked with a variety of groups including Professional Guides, US Forest Service personnel, Fire and Rescue personnel, Search and Rescue Teams, US Coast Guard Rescue Swimmers, US Special Forces, Ocean Life Guards, National Park Rangers, Game and Fish Wardens, Fisheries Biologists, Wilderness Risk Management Conference attendees as well as international rescue personnel. KC is an ACA Level 4 Raft Guide Instructor, International Rafting Federation Class 4/5 Guide and Safety Craft Instructor, ACA Level 5 Swiftwater Rescue Instructor, a Rescue 3 International Instructor Trainer, and Sierra Rescue International Instructor Trainer.