At the NJ Region annual awards banquet in May 2022, we had the pleasure of a truly significant presentation. Matthew Karpinecz, of the Campgaw Mountain Alpine Patrol and the High Point Ski Center Nordic Patrol, was awarded the level of Nordic Master, #015. That’s right, #015! – In the country!

  The Nordic Master program is the highest level of certification for nordic/backcountry patrollers. It trains patrollers to demonstrate their knowledge and ability to independently provide emergency care when needed, and to sustain themselves in a winter environment over a multi-day period.  Required topics include:

• Timed nordic skiing
• Wilderness patient transport
• Ropes, belays and anchors
• Map reading, including use of GPS
• Avalanche terrain analysis, safety, and organized search techniques

 

This certification assures that the patroller can function at an advanced level in MTR, Avalanche, Nordic/ Backcountry, and OEC disciplines, and can organize and lead a backcountry rescue while interfacing with other organizations. It is the Nordic equivalent of Alpine Certified. A VERY big deal!

  Matt started his NSP journey by joining the Campgaw Ski Patrol in January of 2000. His impressive list of accomplishments since then include:

• National appointment #11878 on 3/14/2017
• Assistant NJ Region Director
• NJ Region Avalanche Program Administrator
• Search and Rescue Affiliate Team (SARAT) Leader
• Level 1 Avalanche Instructor
• Nordic/Backcountry Instructor
• OET Instructor
• Mountain Travel & Rescue Instructor

Congratulations Matt, we are honored to have you patrol in the New Jersey Region!