An outdoor guide program for veterans and service members.
Small Business Certificate / 16 Credits
Paul Smith’s College has a long history of supporting transitioning service members and veterans through hands-on education, dedicated
campus resources, and career-focused programs. The Battlefish Academy TopGuide program builds on that commitment by helping participants turn their experience into meaningful careers in the outdoor industry.
Set in the Adirondacks, the program takes learning beyond the classroom and into the field. Participants develop practical skills alongside fellow veterans while building on the leadership, discipline, and resilience gained through military service.
- Outdoor Guide Intensive: The Adirondacks are the classroom. During a two-week immersive Outdoor Guide Intensive, participants gain experience on the water, in the forest, and across the region’s backcountry while developing the technical skills and confidence needed to lead others outdoors.
- Build a Career in the Outdoors: Supported by GI Bill™ benefits, this hybrid program combines online coursework with immersive field instruction. Students graduate prepared to pursue careers in guiding, outdoor recreation, and adventure tourism—or launch their own outdoor business.
- Rooted in Experience: Battlefish Academy helps veterans transform their skills into new opportunities. Through practical training, mentorship, and real-world experience, participants gain the tools to succeed as outdoor professionals and entrepreneurs.
Program Details
| Course Code | Title | Credits |
| MGT210 | Business Systems | 3 |
| REC199 | Battlefish Foundations of Leadership | 4 |
| MKT200 | Principles of Marketing | 3 |
| PSY110 | Organizational Behavior | 3 |
| MGT200 | Principles of Management | 3 |
The Battlefish Academy Small Business Certificate earns 16 college credits, seamlessly transferring into a two-year degree in Business Administration. More than a credential, this is a stepping stone to owning and operating a business in a growing industry that values experience, independence, and a deep connection to the outdoors.
Battlefish Academy Small Business Certificate credits transfer into degree programs at Paul Smith’s College, including:
- A.S. Business Administration (60 credits)
- B.S. Outdoor Adventure Recreation (120
credits) - B.S. Psychology (120 credits)
Fall 2026
| Course Code | Title | Credits | Format/Dates |
| MGT210 | Business Systems | 3 | Online / Aug 24-Sep 11 |
| REC199 | Battlefish Foundations of Leadership | 4 | Hybrid / Sep 14-Oct 1 |
| MKT200 | Principles of Marketing | 3 | Online / Oct 5-23 |
| PSY110 | Organizational Behavior | 3 | Online / Oct 26-Nov 13 |
| MGT200 | Principles of Management | 3 | Online / Nov 16-Dec 4 |
Spring 2027
| Course Code | Title | Credits | Format/Dates |
| MGT210 | Business Systems | 3 | Online / Jan 11-29 |
| REC199 | Battlefish Foundations of Leadership | 4 | Hybrid / Feb 1-19 |
| MKT200 | Principles of Marketing | 3 | Online / Feb 22-Mar 12 |
| PSY110 | Organizational Behavior | 3 | Online / Mar 15-Apr 2 |
| MGT200 | Principles of Management | 3 | Online / Apr 5-23 |
Battlefish Academy operates on a cohort-based model and requires a minimum number of registered participants to run. If minimum enrollment is not met, the course may be cancelled. In the event of cancellation, registered participants will be notified promptly and may defer their enrollment to a later offering or request a refund.
Where the Learning Happens
See It For Yourself
Questions? Let's get in touch.
Battlefish Academy
Director