About school of survival
Our Mission:
At SOS School of Survival, our mission is to empower adventurers and outdoor professionals with the skills and confidence to safely and effectively navigate the wilderness.
We believe that every adventure begins with thorough preparation, and our comprehensive training programs are designed to ensure that our students are well-equipped to handle any challenge they may encounter in the great outdoors.
Our Story:
With years of experience guiding expeditions and teaching survival techniques, Jeffrey has dedicated his career to helping others develop the knowledge and abilities needed to thrive in remote and challenging environments. Under his leadership, SOS has become a trusted name in wilderness preparedness and outdoor survival training.
Meet Jeffrey Lawn:
Jeffrey Lawn, the owner and lead instructor of SOS School of Survival,with decades of experience in wilderness survival, many years working as an EMT-b, Paramedic and Wilderness EMT, and is an accomplished backcountry guide.
Jeffrey’s extensive background includes time working on an ambulance in a busy 911 system, a volunteer EMT and guiding everything from off road expeditions to white water river trips. His hands-on approach and deep understanding of the natural world have earned him a reputation as a top-tier instructor. Jeffrey’s commitment to excellence and his passion for teaching are evident in every course he leads, making him an invaluable resource for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor skills.
Meet Joel Blackner
Joel Blackner is a skilled instructor at SOS School of Survival with a lifelong connection to the outdoors and a deep respect for the natural world. Raised in Cache Valley, Utah, Joel developed his passion for wilderness exploration through formative experiences with his father and grandfather—both of whom played a key role in shaping his backcountry knowledge and love for the land.
From an early age, Joel spent his time hunting, fishing, and adventuring through the mountains of the West. These early experiences grew into a lifelong commitment to outdoor education, leadership, and wilderness skills. A proud Eagle Scout and former Scoutmaster, Joel has dedicated years to teaching outdoor principles and survival techniques to youth and adults alike.
Now living in Idaho with his wife and two sons, Joel continues to spend his time in the backcountry—passing down generations of knowledge and cultivating a lasting connection to nature through family experiences. His hands-on teaching style, personal backcountry experience, and multi-generational wisdom make him a valued member of the SOS instructional team.
Our Philosophy:
Whether you’re a novice adventurer or a seasoned outdoor professional, our training programs are tailored to meet your needs and help you achieve your goals.
Why Choose SOS School of Survival?
Experienced Instructors
Comprehensive Training
Hands-On Learning
Customized Programs
Our Courses
Featured course
Survival 101 "Learn to RETURN"
Real-world survival training focusing on planning, bushcraft skills, and survival priorities. Learn fire craft, shelter construction, and water purification. Perfect for beginners and seasoned adventurers.
Wilderness Medicine
Wilderness First Aid Plus (WFA+)
This course is designed for beginners, weekend warriors, and recreational adventurers who want to be prepared for medical situations in the backcountry. Gain the skills and confidence to care for yourself and others when help is far away.
Wilderness First Responder Plus (WFR+)
Designed for outdoor professionals, guides, and trip leaders who need advanced training to manage medical emergencies in remote environments. Build real-world skills in trauma care, risk management, and bushcraft integration when help is hours—or days—away.
Communication & Navigation
Off-Grid Communications
Stay connected when it matters most. Sign up for our Off-grid Communications course today and master the skills to ensure reliable communication in any situation. Click the link below to join our next class.
Backcountry Navigation
Ready to explore the wilderness with confidence? Sign up for our Backcountry Navigation course today and gain the skills to navigate any terrain safely. Click the link below to join our next class.
Off Road Vehicle Skills
Off-Road First Aid & Safety (ORFAS)
Designed for everyday off-roaders, weekend explorers, and anyone who ventures into the backcountry by vehicle. This course combines essential first aid training with off-road safety and survival skills—no prior experience required.
Off-Road First Responder (ORFR)
Built for outdoor professionals, trail leaders, and serious overlanders, this 9-day course combines traditional wilderness medicine with the practical realities of vehicle-based travel. Gain advanced skills to lead and respond when help is hours—or days—away.