career paths
Tandem Master
Tandem masters are in high demand at any commercial dropzone. Tourists and locals alike flock to experience the thrill of tandem skydiving while in the capable hands of a tandem master. The more determined skydiver can gain this rating after only 2 years. Once you are employed as a freefall cameraperson, the required jump numbers to progress to this role are rapidly achieved.
Camera Flyer
We’ve all seen the action photos of skydivers flying through the skies. There has to be someone taking these photos and this is the role of a freefall camera person. There is a high level of flying skill involved in this field and the Diploma in Commercial Skydiving will help you to develop these skills. A freefall camera person is kept busy at any commercial skydiving centre. Once a skydiver has an NZPIA C Certificate, 200 jumps and the necessary camera skills, they can work as a freefall camera person in New Zealand. Once operating in this role you will be surprised how quickly jump numbers are accumulated. When completed successfully, this course will allow you to meet the minimum requirement to qualify as a freefall cameraperson.
AFF Jumpmaster / Instructors
It is a highly rewarding experience teaching students, using your knowledge to help develop their skills in skydiving and to see them progress. Following 2 years as a Jumpmaster, with further training, you can apply to become an AFF Instructor, with further responsibilities which include training coaches and Jumpmasters.
Coach
Those interested in becoming AFF Jumpmasters or AFF Instructors must first become a coach. The role of a coach is varied and includes developing a student's in-air skills to help them progress to their A and B Endorsement. You can also be responsible for teaching canopy control skills and packing.
Parachute Packer
Every busy dropzone requires people who are skilled at packing tandem and individual parachute systems. Having knowledge in this field can help you in the introductory stages of your skydiving career. Parachute packing is often the initial stepping stone to a career in skydiving.
Ground Crew
A manifestor is the key person responsible for the efficient day-to-day coordination and operation of a dropzone. They are usually the first point of contact for all clients and are responsible for administering and organising skydiving flights, including correctly assigning instructors with passengers. Manifesting is often the busiest position on the dropzone and requires good people skills, careful planning and accuracy in transacting data.
Video Editor
The role of video editing is important in commercial skydiving, for social media and marketing, event videos and skydiving camera packages. Despite the introduction of automated services, the skills of video editors are still valued in the industry.
