For US-based routesetters, certifications are about to get a new twist.
Routesetting certifications aren’t new. USA Climbing has been certifying routesetters for all levels of competition routesetting for nearly two decades. The Climbing Wall Association has been certifying climbing wall workers on industry best practices for work at height since 2016.
What is new is the integration of those two certification programs.
Join us as we talk with Jeremy Ho about the upcoming integration of the USA Climbing and Climbing Wall Association certification programs, what it means for USAC’s Levels and the CWA’s PRS certifications, what it means for the industry… and what it means for you!
This webinar is ideal for routesetters and gym managers who want to learn about this new program.
TUESDAY, MARCH 10
6:00PM MT
**NEW 2026 FORMAT – READ BEFORE RSVP**
For the new year, we’re switching to a new format with higher recording quality! Only five (5) spots are available to join in the live discussion, and participants will be chosen by application. We’re looking for people who are excited to be an active part of the conversation, camera on! We’re also aiming for fresh and diverse voices, so please keep applying if you’re not chosen.
Fill out the RSVP form below to (a) be considered to be a participant in the live discussion and (b) contribute questions/topics.
It is free to RSVP and watch the recording – it will be posted on this page.
Setters Only! is a series of free online discussions led by Foxman McCarthy-James and Justin Wright from Vortex Routesetting, with relevant guests from across the industry. The panel-discussion-style sessions include time for interactive Q&As with attendees.
Upcoming Dates:
MAY 12 & JUNE 9
@6PM MT
(Monthly on 2nd Tuesdays)
Meet your hosts and guests:
| Jeremy Ho (or JHo) serves as the manager of USA Climbing’s national routesetting program. He holds a Level 5 certification and has been routesetting for USA Climbing since 2012. Previously Jeremy was Director of Routesetting for Touchstone Climbing and Sportrock Climbing Centers, and he has been on the crew or served as the chief of many national-level competitions. |  |
| Foxman McCarthy-James is an owner and consultant with Vortex Routesetting. She has brought her background in education into her routesetting career, serving on the CWA Routesetting and Work at Height Committees and teaching routesetting clinics around the country. She is passionate about continuing the conversation on how we can make our industry more welcoming and inclusive. |  |
| Justin Wright is an owner and consultant with Vortex Routesetting. He holds a USAC L4 and has developed routesetting teams across the country. Serving on the CWA’s Routesetting and Work At Height Committees, Justin is committed to helping move the climbing industry forward by developing routesetter education pathways and recommending best practices for volunteer Work At Height standards. |  |
