As the ski season approaches, the CSIA Operations Team has been busy connecting with industry partners across the country. Most recently, we were thrilled to participate in the Canada West Ski Areas Association (CWSAA) meetings in Calgary, Alberta and Rossland, British Columbia, as well as the Ontario Ski Resort Association (OSRA) meeting in Collingwood, Ontario. These events brought together ski area managers, snow school directors, and industry stakeholders to exchange updates and ideas about strengthening ski area operations — including the latest from the CSIA.
At each event, we shared a presentation titled “The Value of Certification: How Engaged Instructors Drive Guest Retention.” The session highlighted how certified and motivated instructors deliver lessons that inspire guests to return season after season. We discussed how building a strong training culture keeps instructors engaged and how CSIA’s programs and resources can support resorts in achieving this goal.
In Calgary and Rossland, conversations focused on how CSIA and resorts can continue collaborating to support instructor development — from encouraging membership renewals (and the $30 Pro Day discount!) to scheduling custom Pro Days tailored to individual snow schools. The BC Committee also joined us in Rossland to share updates on regional member events, scholarships, and bursaries available this season.
At the OSRA meeting in Collingwood, the agenda included a full day dedicated to snow schools. Attendees were very receptive to our presentation and expressed strong interest in the Resort Support Program, which allows Snow School Directors to nominate up to five staff members per resort for a $200 discount on a CSIA certification program this winter.
Over the next few weeks, the team will also be attending additional industry events, including the CWSAA Northern Small Areas meetings in Grande Prairie, AB and Prince George, BC, the SSAOA meeting at Table Mountain, SK, and the Atlantic Ski Resort Association meeting in Brookvale, PEI.
These events are an opportunity to strengthen connections, gather feedback, and celebrate the positive impact CSIA instructors have on the Canadian ski industry. We always leave inspired by the enthusiasm of our partners and energized for the season ahead!
