Contacting raft outfitting companies in your area is the easiest way to begin research on what's available. Generally, companies are most willing to train people who plan to come to work for them. Some firms, however, do schedule beginner classes for the public with no strings attached. Swiftwater Rescue and Wilderness First Aid courses, which do have guidelines and certifications, are currently offered separately. These make fine additions to the overall education of a competent river guide.
Advanced schools are more rare.
These are usually offered by companies to enhance skills of people already on their staff, and get them ready to face Class IV-V, emergency, high water or exploratory situations. The most important skill to acquire at any level of training is judgment. California's 1998 whitewater season seemed to sadly lack it. But hazard lurks in moving water for everyone. But on his last run, at a rapid called Gray's Grindstone, his raft flipped.