The Human Element of Online Learning

Written By: Lance Piatt

The Human Element of Online Learning in Rigging and Rescue

In recent months, the rigging and rescue community has increasingly turned to online learning as a critical component of their training programs. Rigging Lab Academy (RLA) has been at the forefront, offering a library of courses tailored to the unique needs of rescue professionals and rigging teams. While much of the feedback has focused on the technical excellence of RLA’s content, an unexpected yet significant theme has emerged: the human element of learning in a remote environment.

Simplifying Training in a Complex Environment

The challenges of maintaining consistent, high-quality training across stations, teams, or organizations have long been a source of frustration. RLA’s members frequently highlighted the ease and clarity that online courses brought to their programs. Here are some key benefits that resonate specifically with the rigging and rescue industry:

Simplified Learning Processes: Breaking down technical concepts into digestible and actionable steps.
Convenience: Access to courses anytime and anywhere, reducing the need for physical logistics.
Increased Team Engagement: Online learning sparked greater collaboration and discussion within teams.
Cost and Time Efficiency: Lower travel and setup costs, plus faster onboarding for new techniques.
Improved Continuity: A structured approach to training that complements on-site practicals.

These advantages align directly with the operational challenges faced by rescue teams, where time, resources, and precision are paramount.

Fostering a Human-Centered Learning Experience

Beyond the logistical benefits, members repeatedly pointed to the sense of connection and community fostered by RLA’s online platform. Learning remotely didn’t feel isolating—it became an opportunity to share insights, reflect on practices, and grow together as a team. This dynamic is especially critical in high-stakes industries like rigging and rescue, where trust and shared understanding can mean the difference between success and failure.

One particularly profound observation was the “peace” many teams found in simplifying their approach to learning. With RLA, the chaos often associated with coordinating training was replaced by a structured and engaging process. This shift allowed team leaders to focus on critical challenges rather than logistical headaches, fostering a more productive learning environment.

The Cornerstone of Learning and Growth

RLA’s Cornerstone course embodies this philosophy. Designed to help teams build a strong foundation for thinking, learning, and responding, it serves as a metaphorical high directional system. Just as a gin-pole setup requires strategic guy-lines for stability, effective training requires well-anchored strategies to adapt and succeed.

This course—and others within RLA’s library—help teams navigate the complexities of rigging and rescue by offering practical solutions to everyday challenges. From managing edge transitions to understanding mechanical advantage systems, RLA’s courses provide the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in the field.

Adapting to New Training Protocols

Many teams, ranging from small groups of 5-10 members to larger organizations of 250+, have embraced RLA’s online training despite the need to adapt their traditional methods. The Unlimited Team Membership, for instance, has allowed teams to access a wealth of resources tailored to their specific needs, fostering growth and innovation within their ranks.

Conclusion

The integration of online learning into the rigging and rescue industry has proven to be more than just a logistical solution—it has become a transformative experience. By addressing both technical and human elements, RLA has enabled teams to train more effectively, foster deeper connections, and navigate their complex environments with confidence.

About The Author:

Lance Piatt

Beginning his career in the rescue and rigging world as a “blue collar” SAR member with Deschutes and Jefferson County teams. Lance Piatt owns and operates Red Ibex Solutions, a sales and marketing wheelhouse blending rope rigging education and exquisite imagery with equipment knowledge and understanding; housing Rigging Lab Academy and Rescue Response Gear… Lance is producing high-end video education, working with several experts and instructors to produce unique series of “how to videos” and courses for rope rigging: Such as; the first ever full-length rescue training DVD, 'Tower Rescue', released in fall of 2005. As well as a series of scenario-based rescues ranging from cave rescue to cliff rescue.

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