NASBLA Instructor Credentialing Program (NICP)

NASBLA Instructor Credentialing Program (NICP)
To ensure consistent delivery and instructional quality across all BOAT Program courses, NASBLA has established the Instructor Credentialing Program (NICP). The NICP is formally recognized in NASBLA’s Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the United States Coast Guard, which acknowledges the BOAT Program as the National Standard for maritime first responder training. This recognition reinforces the importance of maintaining a credentialed instructor cadre to uphold the integrity and consistency of training nationwide. The NICP is designed to meet the specific needs of NASBLA member agencies and partners on the water. 
 
The NICP encompasses a structured process that includes:
  • Instructor Selection
  • Credentialing
  • Retention and Recertification
  • Ongoing Training and Professional Development
 
Regular evaluations and performance assessments are conducted to ensure instructors continue to meet the established national standards for credentialing and instructional excellence.
 
Effective training of marine law enforcement officers and maritime emergency responders is central to NASBLA’s mission. The NICP supports this mission by maintaining a high-quality, nationally recognized instructor cadre capable of delivering standardized training across multiple course curricula.
 
Credentialing is a critical component of this effort, ensuring that all instructors deliver consistent, high-quality instruction that benefits both the personnel receiving the training and the agencies they serve.
 
This credential does not authorize individuals to deliver NASBLA courses independently or outside of the BOAT Program framework. All training must be coordinated through NASBLA to ensure quality, consistency, and alignment with national standards.
 
For more information, contact:
Director, BOAT Program