Updated for 2026
If you’ve recently earned your USPA A-License and are wondering “what’s next?”, Skydive Chicago hosts multiple events designed specifically for newer licensed jumpers. From skill-building weekends and canopy courses to B-license requirements and friendly competitions, these events help rookies progress safely while building confidence and community.
All dropzone events — including boogies — are listed on our 👉 Event Calendar
Quick Overview: Rookie Events at Skydive Chicago
- Designed for A-licensed jumpers (25–250 jumps)
- Skill progression toward B-License
- Coaching, canopy control, and safety focus
- Structured learning + fun community atmosphere
- Open to jumpers from any dropzone
A-License Club
A-License Club is a monthly event for skydivers who have earned their A-License and want to keep progressing.
Whether you’re at 25 jumps or 250 jumps, this event focuses on:
- Building confidence in group jumps
- Improving formation skills
- Learning from experienced mentors
- Meeting fellow rookies
This is one of the best ways to avoid plateauing early in your skydiving journey.
Registration: FREE (plus jump tickets)
2026 Dates:
April 11-12
May 23-25
June 27-28
July 18-19
August 8-9
September 12-13
October 3-4
Canopy Courses
Canopy control is one of the most important skills in skydiving. For jumpers working toward their USPA B-License, advanced canopy education is required.
Skydive Chicago partners with USPACourses.com to offer canopy courses specifically geared toward newer licensed skydivers.
Instructor: Kacey Crippin
What You’ll Learn:
- Improved landing accuracy
- Safer descent patterns
- Traffic management
- Advanced canopy concepts
- Personalized coaching with video debriefs
Each landing is reviewed to help you identify areas of improvement and build safer habits.
2026 Dates*
June 9
July 12
August 9
September 6
October 4
*Dates subject to change — always confirm on the Event Calendar.
Water Training (B-License Requirement)
Water training is required for your USPA B-License and prepares you for the unlikely event of an unintentional water landing.
This training includes:
- Ground instruction
- Emergency procedure review
- Simulated water landing practice
Water training is usually scheduled after the B-license canopy course – so you could potentially do both on the same day!
Where: Swimming Pond
Time: 6:00pm*
Bring: Logbook, swimwear, towel, and your personal rig for dry practice
Cost: $55
*Start time may be pushed back during long summer days
2026 Dates:
June 9
July 12
August 9
September 6
October 4
Coach Course (First Instructional Rating)
The USPA Coach Rating is the first instructional rating available to licensed skydivers.
While not limited to rookies, this course is an excellent way for newer jumpers to reinforce fundamentals in a structured, educational environment.
Instructor: Angie Aragon (uspacourses.com)
CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS:
- Current USPA membership
- At least 18 years old
- USPA B-License or higher
- Minimum 100 jumps
2026 Dates:
August 7-9
For registration details, visit 👉 the official course link
Mid Season Safety Day
Safety is not just a preseason conversation.
Mid-Season Safety Day is designed to reconnect jumpers with best practices and address currency complacency that can develop during busy summer months.
This event includes:
- Open safety discussions
- Scenario reviews
- Refresher training
- Community Q&A
- Prizes
Date: Saturday, July 18th
Time/Location: 8 PM at the Tiki Hut
World Skydiving Day
Skydive Chicago proudly partners with the United States Parachute Association for 👉 World Skydiving Day.
Jumpers who make a skydive on this designated date participate in a worldwide celebration of the sport.
Registration: FREE (just your jump tickets)
Date: Saturday, July 11th
Rookiefest
Rookiefest is the ultimate competition for beginner skydivers — often described as the “Nationals for Rookies.”
This 3-way scrambles-style competition is open to rookie skydivers from any dropzone.
Participants compete for:
- The Rookiefest Trophy
- Dropzone bragging rights
- Skill-building experience
Event also includes:
- Educational seminars on gear, canopy, exits, formation skydiving, and safety
- Get-to-know-you games and connection to the SDC community
- Evening celebration at the Tiki Bar
Eligibility
Rookie skydivers may compete if they meet either criteria:
- Fewer than 200 total jumps
OR - Less than 2 years in the sport
2026 Dates: September 26–27
Who Are These Rookie Events For?
These events are ideal for:
- New A-License holders
- Jumpers progressing toward their B-License
- Skydivers looking to build consistency
- Anyone wanting structured coaching
- Those looking to make great community memories, friends, and connections
If you’re asking, “What’s next after my A-License?” — this is your answer.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Progression in skydiving doesn’t happen by accident. It happens with mentorship, repetition, and community.
Explore all upcoming events here:
