How to Become a Drop Zone Safety Officer (Sky’s the Limit)

If you’ve ever dreamed of ensuring skydiving safety or wondered what it takes to become a Drop Zone Safety Officer, you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the SPECIFIC steps you need to take to embark on your career as a Drop Zone Safety Officer. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you need.
- The training that can help you succeed.
- How to secure a job as a Drop Zone Safety Officer.
So, whether you’re a skydiving enthusiast or a safety-conscious individual looking to upskill, stay tuned.
We’re about to unravel the roadmap to become a Drop Zone Safety Officer.
Let’s get started!
Steps to Become a Drop Zone Safety Officer
Step 1: Understand the Job Role and Responsibilities
The first step towards becoming a Drop Zone Safety Officer is gaining a comprehensive understanding of the job role and responsibilities.
A Drop Zone Safety Officer (DZSO) is primarily responsible for ensuring the safety of skydivers, spectators, and personnel in skydiving operations.
They oversee and manage all aspects of a skydiving drop zone, from coordinating jump operations to enforcing safety regulations and procedures.
The DZSO is responsible for conducting safety briefings, checking gear and equipment, ensuring the correct use of safety gear, and managing emergency situations.
They also need to be aware of weather conditions and make the call on whether conditions are safe for jumps to proceed.
Understanding the role also involves gaining knowledge about different parachute systems, skydiving techniques, and emergency procedures.
It is beneficial to have a strong base in physics and mathematics for understanding concepts like wind speed, parachute deployment, and descent rate.
In addition, communication and leadership skills are key, as the DZSO often leads a team and must be able to effectively communicate safety guidelines and procedures to skydivers of all skill levels.
Aspiring DZSOs should also be prepared for the physical demands of the job, as it may involve lifting heavy equipment and responding quickly in emergency situations.
The role carries a great deal of responsibility and requires careful attention to detail.
It involves making critical decisions that can impact the safety and lives of others, so it is not a role to be taken lightly.
It’s crucial that anyone considering this career path comprehends the depth of these responsibilities before proceeding to the next steps.
Step 2: Complete Basic Education
Having a high school diploma or its equivalent is the basic educational requirement for becoming a Drop Zone Safety Officer.
This job role does not necessarily require a college degree but having a background in physical education, health and safety, or a related field can be beneficial.
During your high school years, you should focus on subjects such as physical education, mathematics, physics, and first aid.
These subjects will provide you with a solid foundation for understanding the technical aspects of the job, such as calculating drop zones and understanding the physics of free fall.
Apart from the academic knowledge, you need to be physically fit and have excellent communication skills as the job involves dealing with different people and potentially stressful situations.
After completing your basic education, it is highly recommended to gain some practical experience in skydiving or a related field to better understand the dynamics of the job.
In some countries or regions, a basic skydiving certification or a specific number of logged jumps may also be required.
Ensure to check with the local regulatory body or skydiving associations to understand specific prerequisites.
Remember, the ultimate goal is to ensure the safety of all participants in a drop zone.
Step 3: Receive Skydiving Training
In order to effectively perform the role of a Drop Zone Safety Officer, getting skydiving training is crucial.
You need to understand the intricacies and risks associated with skydiving.
This includes learning about the equipment, the correct skydiving techniques, emergency procedures, and the safety measures that need to be taken.
You should register for a skydiving training program at a reputable organization.
Courses usually begin with ground training which covers the theoretical aspects of skydiving, followed by instructor-assisted deployment, where you’ll make your first jump with the help of an instructor.
As you progress, you can move on to static line training and then freefall training.
Skydiving certifications are also available and can be beneficial for this role.
After all, as a Drop Zone Safety Officer, you will not only need to ensure safety regulations are being followed, but you’ll also need to be capable of providing instruction and guidance to others.
Therefore, having a deep and practical understanding of skydiving is essential.
Remember to continuously practice and update your skills, skydiving is a high risk sport and staying current on safety measures and techniques is of the utmost importance.
It’s not just about theoretical knowledge but also about practical experience and proficiency.
Step 4: Gain Hands-On Skydiving Experience
As a Drop Zone Safety Officer, you will be expected to have extensive knowledge and first-hand experience in skydiving.
It is essential that you thoroughly understand the mechanics, procedures, and safety aspects of the sport.
This knowledge can only be obtained through consistent hands-on skydiving experience.
Start by getting your skydiving license.
This involves completing a set number of successful jumps and passing a written and practical exam.
Once licensed, you should continue to regularly skydive and expose yourself to a variety of jump scenarios and conditions.
This will enhance your skills and teach you how to handle different situations, which is crucial for ensuring the safety of other jumpers.
You may also want to consider becoming a certified skydiving instructor, as this can provide you with a deeper understanding of safety protocols and regulations.
It also offers the opportunity to mentor and educate others about skydiving, which can be highly beneficial in the role of a Drop Zone Safety Officer.
Remember that the more hands-on experience you have, the better equipped you will be to perform your duties as a Drop Zone Safety Officer, as you will be more familiar with all the potential risks and challenges involved in skydiving.
Step 5: Obtain Skydiving License
In order to fully understand and effectively oversee the safety procedures at a drop zone, a Drop Zone Safety Officer should be experienced in skydiving.
This includes obtaining a skydiving license from an accredited organization such as the United States Parachute Association (USPA) or its equivalent in your country.
The license is earned by completing a series of jumps that demonstrate proficiency in various skydiving skills.
Different types of licenses (A, B, C, and D) require different levels of proficiency and experience.
For example, a D license, the highest level, requires a minimum of 500 jumps and various other advanced skills.
During this training process, you will gain firsthand experience in the operational procedures, safety measures, and equipment used in skydiving.
You’ll also learn emergency procedures and protocols, which is crucial for a Drop Zone Safety Officer.
Remember, becoming an efficient Drop Zone Safety Officer not only requires knowledge of safety procedures but also a level of empathy and understanding that can only come from being a skydiver yourself.
Your own experiences as a skydiver will give you valuable insights into ensuring everyone’s safety at the drop zone.
Step 6: Enroll in a Drop Zone Safety Officer Course
Once you have gained a solid understanding of skydiving operations and safety measures, the next step is to enroll in a Drop Zone Safety Officer (DZSO) course.
This course will focus on providing you with specialized knowledge and skills to manage safety in drop zones effectively.
These courses generally cover topics like risk assessment, safety management, emergency procedures, equipment inspections, and supervision of drop zone operations.
In addition, you may also learn about meteorology, aviation regulations, and effective communication with skydiving teams.
Many of these courses involve both theoretical and practical components, thus providing you with hands-on experience in managing drop zone safety.
Some may also provide training on specific areas like tandem skydiving or high-altitude jumps.
Upon successful completion of this course, you should be equipped to handle safety-related issues in the drop zone and be able to guide and train other personnel in adhering to the safety protocols.
It’s important to choose a course that’s recognized by relevant skydiving or aviation authorities in your region to ensure your training is accredited and recognized in the industry.
Remember, being a DZSO means continuously updating your knowledge and skills, so consider taking refresher courses or additional training sessions even after you’ve completed your initial training.
This will keep you abreast of the latest safety standards and procedures in the industry.
Step 7: Gain Experience in a Drop Zone Environment
Gaining hands-on experience in a drop zone environment is a crucial step in becoming a Drop Zone Safety Officer.
This environment is typically where parachuting operations take place, and it’s where you’ll learn about everything from equipment safety checks to coordinating jumps.
You can start gaining experience by volunteering or working at a local skydiving center.
This will help you understand the many aspects of parachuting, such as packing parachutes, assisting in tandem skydives, and learning about the various safety equipment and procedures.
This experience will also give you a chance to observe and learn from experienced Drop Zone Safety Officers.
As you gain experience, you’ll become more familiar with the regulations and procedures of the drop zone, as well as how to effectively communicate and coordinate with others in this high-stakes environment.
This experience will be invaluable when it’s time to take on the responsibilities of a Drop Zone Safety Officer.
Remember, to be a successful Drop Zone Safety Officer, you must be prepared to handle emergencies and make quick decisions to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
This requires a deep understanding of the field, which comes from extensive experience.
Step 8: Obtain Drop Zone Safety Officer Certification
As a Drop Zone Safety Officer, you’ll need to obtain the necessary certification to be able to perform your duties effectively and legally.
This certification is usually obtained through a recognized skydiving organization, such as the United States Parachute Association (USPA).
The certification process involves training courses that cover all aspects of drop zone safety, including equipment inspection, emergency protocols, and risk management.
These courses often involve both theoretical learning and practical exercises, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of what the role entails.
Upon successful completion of the certification process, you’ll be qualified to oversee safety operations at skydiving drop zones, ensuring that all activities comply with established safety standards and regulations.
Remember, maintaining this certification might require ongoing training and education to stay updated on the latest safety practices and regulations in the industry.
In this role, your primary responsibility is to ensure the safety of all participants in skydiving activities.
Therefore, obtaining this certification not only validates your skills and knowledge but also emphasizes your commitment to safety in this high-risk sport.
Step 9: Keep Your Skills and Certifications Current
As a Drop Zone Safety Officer, it’s crucial to stay updated with the latest safety protocols and procedures.
This involves maintaining an active status of your certifications and frequently refreshing your skills.
Many certifying bodies require periodic recertification to ensure you’re up-to-date with evolving safety standards and procedures.
Participate in regular refresher training courses, workshops, and seminars organized by professional bodies or skydiving schools.
These programs can help you stay abreast of the latest technological advancements in the field, such as new safety equipment or updated methodologies for risk assessment.
Also, consider attending industry conferences and networking events.
These can offer valuable insights into current trends and provide opportunities for learning from experienced peers in the field.
The knowledge and experience gained from these events can be invaluable in enhancing your ability to perform your duties effectively and ensure the safety of all drop zone participants.
Lastly, continuous self-learning is equally important.
Make it a habit to read relevant journals, articles, and online resources that discuss new findings or improvements in the area of parachuting safety.
This proactive approach will help you stay competent and reliable in your role as a Drop Zone Safety Officer.
Step 10: Apply for Drop Zone Safety Officer Positions
Once you’ve attained the necessary certifications and gained sufficient experience in parachute operations and safety management, it’s time to actively seek out Drop Zone Safety Officer positions.
These can be found in a variety of organizations from military departments to private skydiving companies.
To increase your chances of getting hired, you need to tailor your resume and cover letter to each job application, emphasizing your skills and experiences relevant to the specific duties of a Drop Zone Safety Officer.
This could include your expertise in safety protocols, your experience in parachute packing, and your certification details.
Next, prepare for potential interviews.
Research common interview questions for Drop Zone Safety Officers and rehearse your responses.
In the interview, communicate your passion for skydiving safety and your commitment to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Furthermore, networking can significantly improve your job prospects.
Consider joining professional organizations for parachute operations or skydiving where you can meet other professionals in the industry, participate in forums and events, and potentially discover unadvertised job openings.
Remember, job hunting can take time.
Stay patient and persistent, and continue to keep yourself updated with the latest safety protocols and regulations in the industry.
This will not only improve your chances of landing a job but also prepare you for the responsibilities of a Drop Zone Safety Officer.
Step 11: Continuous Learning and Staying Updated with Safety Measures and Regulations
As a Drop Zone Safety Officer, it’s crucial to keep abreast with the evolving safety measures and regulations in the skydiving industry.
This includes understanding the latest equipment, techniques, and practices that ensure the utmost safety of skydivers and staff.
You should consider attending workshops, conferences, and seminars to learn about the latest advances and discussions in the field.
Networking with industry experts at these events can also provide valuable insights into best practices.
Reading journals, articles, and industry-related materials is also a must.
This can help you understand current industry trends, learn about new equipment, and keep up to date with the latest research on safety measures.
Online courses and training programs can also be a great way to stay updated.
Many organizations offer courses related to skydiving safety and equipment.
Enrolling in these courses not only provides knowledge but also gives you additional credentials that can be beneficial for your career growth.
Also, keep an eye on updates from regulatory bodies in your country and internationally.
They often publish updates and changes to safety regulations that you need to follow.
Remember, your primary role as a Drop Zone Safety Officer is to ensure safety at all times.
Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest safety measures and regulations is critical in fulfilling this responsibility.
Step 12: Develop Excellent Communication and Problem-Solving Skills
In the role of a Drop Zone Safety Officer, your ability to communicate effectively and solve problems quickly is crucial.
You’re responsible for ensuring the safety of all drop zone activities, which involves coordinating with multiple parties and reacting to unexpected events.
Effective communication is paramount in this role, as you need to deliver clear, concise instructions to parachutists, pilots, and ground crews.
You’ll also be expected to handle emergency situations and liaise with emergency services if necessary.
This requires strong interpersonal skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
Problem-solving is equally important, as you’ll need to quickly assess and react to situations that may pose a risk to safety.
This could involve managing parachute malfunctions, addressing hazardous weather conditions, or dealing with injuries on the ground.
To develop these skills, consider enrolling in communication or conflict resolution courses.
Regularly participating in emergency response drills can also improve your problem-solving abilities.
Remember that this role demands quick thinking, decisiveness, and the capacity to make sound judgments under intense pressure.
Drop Zone Safety Officer Roles and Responsibilities
A Drop Zone Safety Officer (DZSO) oversees and ensures the safety of parachute jumps at a specified drop zone.
They are responsible for monitoring weather conditions, ensuring the safety of all personnel on the drop zone, and coordinating jump operations.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Weather Monitoring
- Monitor and assess weather conditions for safe parachute operations.
- Make safety decisions based on wind speed, cloud coverage, and other weather conditions.
Safety Supervision
- Ensure the safety of all personnel on the drop zone.
- Verify the parachute riggers’ inspection and packing of parachutes.
- Inspect parachutes and gear prior to jumps.
- Oversee and manage emergency procedures and medical services.
Operations Coordination
- Coordinate with pilots, air traffic control, and other relevant personnel for jump operations.
- Manage communication with the aircraft during jump operations.
Training
- Conduct and supervise safety briefings for jumpers.
- Train and supervise jump masters and assistant jump masters.
Regulation Compliance
- Ensure compliance with all local, national, and international safety regulations and standards.
- Enforce safety rules and regulations on the drop zone.
Incident Management
- Manage and coordinate response to any accidents or incidents.
- Investigate and report accidents or incidents involving parachute operations.
Documentation
- Maintain records of all jumps, including details of parachutes used, weather conditions, and any incidents.
- Keep logs of equipment checks and maintenance.
Communication
- Communicate effectively with a wide range of people, including jumpers, aircraft crew, and emergency personnel.
- Report any safety concerns or incidents to relevant authorities.
Continuous Learning
- Stay updated with the latest safety standards, regulations, and best practices in parachute operations.
- Participate in regular training and professional development opportunities.
What Does a Drop Zone Safety Officer Do?
Drop Zone Safety Officers (DZSOs) typically work for skydiving companies or similar organizations that manage parachuting activities.
Their primary role is ensuring the safety of everyone involved in the parachuting activities, including skydivers, instructors, and ground personnel.
They are responsible for the daily safety operations at the drop zone and are required to have a comprehensive understanding of all safety protocols and guidelines.
This includes thoroughly checking parachuting equipment for faults, ensuring that the drop zone area is clear of obstructions, and coordinating safe landing procedures.
DZSOs work closely with skydiving instructors and pilots, ensuring that they follow all safety regulations and protocols.
They may also conduct safety briefings for skydiving students and other personnel, explaining the correct use of equipment and emergency procedures.
DZSOs are responsible for dealing with any accidents or emergencies that occur during parachuting operations.
They must be able to react quickly and decisively, often coordinating with emergency services if required.
Regularly, they inspect the drop zone to ensure it remains in a safe condition, often monitoring weather conditions and making a decision on whether it is safe to proceed with jumps.
In addition to these safety-related duties, DZSOs may also have administrative tasks, such as documenting safety incidents, maintaining equipment logs, and ensuring that all activities comply with relevant regulations.
Essential Drop Zone Safety Officer Skills
- Safety Training: Being proficient in emergency procedures, first aid, and CPR is crucial. Drop Zone Safety Officers must know how to respond to different types of emergencies that might occur during a jump.
- Communication: The ability to clearly and effectively communicate with a diverse group of people is essential. They need to provide instructions and safety briefings to jumpers, and coordinate with ground crew and pilots.
- Attention to Detail: Safety Officers must be very observant and detail-oriented to ensure all equipment is properly maintained and used, and all safety procedures are strictly followed.
- Physical Fitness: The job often requires heavy lifting and being on your feet for extended periods. Physical strength and endurance are important.
- Regulation Knowledge: They should have a deep understanding of all rules and regulations associated with skydiving, including those set by local, state, and national bodies.
- Weather Knowledge: Knowledge of weather patterns and conditions is crucial, as weather plays a significant role in the safety of jumps.
- Leadership: Safety officers often supervise a team of ground crew members and must be able to lead effectively. Leadership skills include problem-solving, decision-making, and conflict resolution.
- Experience in Skydiving: Prior experience in skydiving and a thorough understanding of all its aspects is a must. Familiarity with the equipment, procedures, and risks associated with skydiving is vital.
- Documentation: They must be proficient in documenting all relevant information related to jumps, including safety briefings, equipment checks, and incident reports.
- Customer Service: Excellent customer service skills are important as they often interact directly with clients. They should be able to handle client concerns, complaints, and provide clear explanations of safety procedures.
- Teamwork: Collaboration is important in this role. They must work effectively within a team, share information, and contribute to the safety and success of each jump.
- Resilience: They must remain calm under pressure and during emergencies, making quick and effective decisions to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Drop Zone Safety Officer Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Assistant Drop Zone Safety Officer
The journey typically begins as an Assistant Drop Zone Safety Officer.
At this stage, you are learning about safety protocols, regulations, and practical application in tandem jumps or parachuting scenarios.
Your tasks may involve assisting the lead safety officer, maintaining equipment, and familiarizing yourself with various safety measures.
Here are some tips for success in this role:
- Learn Continuously: Stay up-to-date with the latest safety protocols and equipment in the industry.
- Seek Mentorship: Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek guidance from your senior colleagues.
- Attention to Detail: Develop a keen eye for detail, ensuring all safety procedures and equipment checks are meticulously followed.
The Ascent: Drop Zone Safety Officer
With gained experience and knowledge, you’ll transition into the role of a Drop Zone Safety Officer.
You’ll ensure safety operations are carried out effectively, provide guidance to staff, and make crucial decisions during emergency situations.
Here’s how to thrive in this stage:
- Decision Making: Develop your decision-making skills to act swiftly and correctly in emergencies.
- Communication: Maintain clear and effective communication with your team and participants.
- Safety Compliance: Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and procedures at all times.
Reaching New Heights: Senior Drop Zone Safety Officer
The next step is the Senior Drop Zone Safety Officer position.
At this stage, you’re recognized for your expertise and leadership within the team.
You will be responsible for supervising safety operations, training new staff, and developing safety protocols.
To excel as a Senior Drop Zone Safety Officer:
- Mentorship: Share your knowledge and help new safety officers grow.
- Problem-Solving: Develop robust solutions to safety challenges and potential hazards.
- Leadership: Lead by example and inspire others with your commitment to safety and professionalism.
Beyond the Horizon: Drop Zone Safety Manager
As your career progresses, you may advance to the role of Drop Zone Safety Manager.
This role involves greater responsibilities, leadership, and strategic decision-making to ensure overall safety at the drop zone.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Strategic Planning: Develop and implement strategic safety plans for your organization.
- Management Skills: Develop strong leadership and communication skills to guide your team effectively.
- Innovation: Stay at the forefront of safety trends and innovative equipment in the industry.
Pinnacle of Success: Director of Safety Operations
In the highest echelons of the Drop Zone Safety Officer career, you may find roles like Director of Safety Operations.
Here, you will be responsible for establishing the overall safety strategy of the organization, making critical decisions, and managing larger teams.
Drop Zone Safety Officer Salary
Entry-Level Drop Zone Safety Officer
- Median Salary: $30,000 – $40,000 per year
- Entry-level Drop Zone Safety Officers usually have 0-2 years of experience and may hold certifications in safety management or related fields. They ensure safety protocols are strictly followed at drop zones.
Mid-Level Drop Zone Safety Officer
- Median Salary: $40,000 – $55,000 per year
- Mid-level officers have 2-5 years of experience and often take on more complex safety management responsibilities, including risk assessment and safety training programs.
Senior Drop Zone Safety Officer
- Median Salary: $55,000 – $70,000 per year
- Senior officers possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for leading safety initiatives, overseeing compliance with safety regulations, and mentoring junior safety officers.
Lead Drop Zone Safety Officer / Safety Manager
- Median Salary: $70,000 – $85,000 per year
- These roles come with significant experience and often involve overseeing all safety operations, managing safety officers, and making crucial decisions regarding safety protocols.
Principal Safety Officer / Safety Director
- Median Salary: $85,000 – $110,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience, deep safety knowledge, and often involve setting safety strategies for the entire operation.
Drop Zone Safety Officer Work Environment
Drop Zone Safety Officers typically work in environments such as skydiving centers, military training facilities, and other locations where parachuting activities take place.
The job requires them to spend a significant amount of their time outdoors, often in varying weather conditions, to oversee and ensure the safety of parachute drop zones.
They may also be required to work irregular hours, including on weekends or holidays, depending on when parachute drops are scheduled.
In some instances, Drop Zone Safety Officers might also find themselves working in control towers or on aircraft to monitor the drop zone from various perspectives.
High levels of responsibility and pressure come with this role as the safety of the parachutists entirely depends on them.
Therefore, maintaining a calm and focused demeanor is crucial in this line of work.
As they gain more experience and knowledge in the field, Drop Zone Safety Officers may progress to roles that include training and supervising new safety officers or managing safety at larger or more complex drop zones.
FAQs About Becoming a Drop Zone Safety Officer
What qualifications do I need to become a Drop Zone Safety Officer?
To become a Drop Zone Safety Officer, you typically need to have significant experience in skydiving, usually as a certified Skydiving Instructor.
A deep understanding of safety procedures and regulations regarding skydiving activities is a must.
Additionally, a First Aid Certification is highly beneficial.
Proficiency in risk assessment, emergency response, and communication are key skills.
How long does it take to become a Drop Zone Safety Officer?
The time it takes to become a Drop Zone Safety Officer can vary widely, as it largely depends on the time you spend gaining the necessary skydiving experience and instruction.
As a guideline, you should plan for several years of active involvement in skydiving to reach this level.
Many Drop Zone Safety Officers have hundreds, if not thousands, of skydives under their belt before assuming this role.
Do I need to be a licensed skydiver to become a Drop Zone Safety Officer?
Yes, a Drop Zone Safety Officer typically needs to be a licensed skydiver.
In fact, you will likely need an advanced skydiving license, such as a Class D license from the United States Parachute Association (USPA) or equivalent, and significant experience as a Skydiving Instructor.
Is being a Drop Zone Safety Officer a dangerous job?
As a Drop Zone Safety Officer, you are responsible for the safety of others during skydiving activities, which inherently involves some level of risk.
However, strict adherence to safety protocols and regulations significantly reduces these risks.
Your job is to ensure these safety measures are followed at all times, so while there is a level of risk involved, it is a controlled risk.
What is the job market like for Drop Zone Safety Officers?
The job market for Drop Zone Safety Officers can be competitive, as it’s a specialized role within the skydiving industry.
However, with the growing popularity of adventure sports, there are increasing opportunities at skydiving centers worldwide.
Those with a strong track record in safety and instruction are likely to have the best prospects.
Conclusion
There you have it.
Setting out on the path to become a Drop Zone Safety Officer is no easy task, but the rewards are truly unparalleled.
Equipped with the correct knowledge, training, and perseverance, you’re on the right trajectory to making a significant difference in the extreme sports industry.
Remember, the journey may be demanding, but the potential for growth and achievement is boundless. Your skills and expertise could make extreme sports safer and more enjoyable for everyone involved.
So, take the plunge. Immerse yourself in training. Engage with professionals in the field. And most importantly, never stop learning.
Because the world of extreme sports is eager for your contribution.
And if you’re in need of personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career as a Drop Zone Safety Officer, don’t hesitate to check out our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to deliver tailored advice and resources to effectively guide you through your career path.
The Hidden World of High-Stress Jobs: What You Don’t See on TV!
Economic Immunity: The Most Resilient Recession-Proof Jobs
AI’s Human Challenge: Jobs That Machines Can’t Master