Overland Expo Training gives you access to some of the most knowledgeable and experienced experts in the world of overland travel and off-roading. The team is made up of component individuals with countless hours of instructional experience across a wide range of topics, including technical driving skills, recovery, and vehicle repairs and maintenance. Kristle Slason is one of our Overland Expo Training team members and brings a number of certifications and an impressive resume of off-road experience to the group. She’s currently an ACLS, BLS, TNCC, and Stop the Bleed Instructor. Plus, she has participated in organized training through Overland Expo, Rebelle U, and Barlow Adventures. To top it all off, she’s a Rebelle Rally competitor.
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Overland Expo: Thanks for chatting with us, Kristle! Why do you think it’s important for people to receive proper training before heading out on overland adventures?
Kristle Slason: Proper training and education are imperative for personal safety and vehicle longevity. By understanding the proper uses of equipment, proper safety techniques, and understanding vehicle sympathy, you can help ensure an adventure that you and your vehicle can return from.
Overland Expo: And from your perspective, what is the value of the Overland Expo Training?
Kristle Slason: Overland Expo training has served to be invaluable. Helping those with numerous levels of experience. The trainers seek to understand what each student knows and ensures to expand and develop that knowledge.
Overland Expo: What do you think attendees need to do in order to prepare for Overland Expo Training?
Kristle Slason: Attendees need to come eager and willing to learn. Being prepared to seek an understanding of special circumstances and asking questions will only help with their experience. Always be willing to see a problem from a different perspective.
Overland Expo: What can Overland Expo Training attendees expect to learn on the driving course?
Kristle Slason: Attendees can expect to be able to put into practice what they have learned. For some, it’s offering a safe space with trainers to become comfortable with their vehicle; for others, it’s understanding how the vehicle works, differences between high and low range, or utilizing left foot braking. And for some attendees its utilizing specialized buttons in their vehicle and how they impact the vehicle in a given situation
Overland Expo: Why do you think it’s important to use your personal vehicle during Overland Expo Training?
Kristle Slason: Using your own vehicle allows you to practice and ask questions pertinent to your vehicle. It allows the trainers to contour each class to your specific areas of concern. It’s also great for understanding what your vehicle is capable of prior to major modifications. I promise your stock vehicle is more capable than you think.
Overland Expo: What is your favorite component of Overland Expo Training, and why?
Kristle Slason: The entire environment. You get access to some of the world’s best teachers, trainers, and experts in the off-road/overland industry, all of whom want to share their knowledge with others. They are some of the most experienced instructors I have had the opportunity to teach alongside.
Overland Expo: Once an attendee gets trained, where do you recommend they should take their skills?
Kristle Slason: One of my favorite places to explore is the Southwest. It is home to some amazing views. And no matter where you travel, don’t forget to stop and watch a sunset!
Overland Expo: Thanks for chatting with us! We can’t wait to see you on the training course at Overland Expo PNW!