Instructional Philosophy
river professionals
Paddling whitewater is so much more than running rapids, making moves, and rolling back upright. To us, being on the river is the whole package; it makes us focus, think, visualize, and communicate, as well as demands precision and equanimity in a dynamic environment. That is why paddling is so much fun! Whitewater Attainment programs reflect this whitewater philosophy. Our immersive approach to instruction focuses on technical skills and thinking skills such as planning, communication, and risk management for recreational kayakers and all river professionals.
Locations
Upper Colorado River (Colorado)
Combining beauty and quality class II-III rapids, the Upper Colorado River is our primary venue for beginner and intermediate kayak and packraft instruction.
Upper Colorado River courses are made possible directly through Whitewater Attainment and our highly qualified professional instructors.
Rio Grande River (New Mexico)
Flowing through the alluring southwest landscapes and steep-walled gorges, the Rio Grande is another exceptional instructional setting with class II-IV rapids.
Rio Grande River courses are made possible through our partnership with New Mexico River Adventures.
Arkansas River (Colorado)
With some of the most classic and scenic whitewater sections in the State of Colorado, the Arkansas River is an extraordinary venue for intermediate and advanced kayakers and packraft to continue progressing their boating skills.
Arkansas River courses are made possible through our partnership with Canyon River Instruction.
Instructors
Tommy Gram
Owner & ACA Instructor Trainer Educator (ITE)
Tommy has been teaching kayaking, packrafting, swiftwater rescue, and wilderness medicine for over a decade. He is passionate about helping people build the skills and confidence to have fun and stay safe outdoors.
He began whitewater canoeing and kayaking at a young age and developed experience across a range of disciplines, including slalom, freestyle, river running, and creek boating. These experiences led to a career traveling and competing as a sponsored athlete.
After settling in Colorado, Tommy found his path in outdoor education. In addition to owning and operating Whitewater Attainment, he is the co-owner and managing partner of Buena Vista Mountain Adventures (BVMA), where he works as a lead backcountry ski guide, AIARE course leader, and SOLO wilderness medicine course leader.
When he’s not on the water, Tommy can be found backcountry skiing in the Colorado Rockies. No matter the season, he is outside, teaching others how to move through the mountains and rivers safely and confidently.
Certifications
American Canoe Association (ACA) L4 Whitewater Kayak Instructor Trainer Educator
American Canoe Association (ACA) L4 Swiftwater Rescue Instructor Trainer Educator
American Canoe Association (ACA) L4 Packrafting Instructor Trainer Educator
American Canoe Association (ACA) L5 Advanced Whitewater Kayak Instructor Trainer
National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) & Colorado State Licensed Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
SOLO Wilderness Emergency Medical Technical (W-EMT)
SOLO Wilderness Medical Course Instructor
American Red Cross (ARC) CPR & BLS Instructor
American Avalanche Association (A3) Pro 1 & Pro 2 Certified
American Institute of Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE) Avalanche Course Leader