Pup,

Wolfkiller said it best they are a joke for the most part. Its some outfitters way of making money on the off season. Just my father and I handle our outfitting, you want it done right do it yourself. That means taking less clients and doing them right by giving them a better hunt than outfitters running lots of clients through camps. Number 1 rule don't run numbers in outfitting.

Are you experienced with stock(horses and mules)?
Are you willing to sacrifice money for the love of hunting?
Are you up on first aid and cpr?
Do you know the rules and regulations of guiding in your state?
Willing to have the blame even if your not at fault for the hunters success?
Theres tons of things outfitting school can only give you the basics.

Find a reputable guide in need of help. Don't spend money on basic information when you can learn first hand on the job. There is no book learned outfitting school that will teach you more than an actual experience. You may only get to handle the stock and go along as a helper but you will learn more watching. Learn all the regulations of the state for outfitting before asking the outfitter for a job. You can get these at the forest service offices. That way you know right from wrong and if your outfitter is doing something wrong go find one that does it right.

I think its wonderful your wanting to be a guide. I live it and dream it everyday. Welcome to the world of putting smiles on hunters faces.

This is one occupation you can get paid to learn> Don't do the schools.