It’s been a busy month for the CSIA team!
International Ski Instructors’ Association
Jason Young and I attended the ISIA General Assembly meetings in San Marino, Italy. Our brief for these meetings was fourfold:
- Improve/reaffirm our relations with the global community as the Canadian certifying body.
- Get the endorsement of the General Assembly on a statement re PSIC & PSIE (see below).
- Coordination of a standardised framework for international certification equivalencies amongst ISIA members.
- Gain a seat on the international board.
I’m happy to report that we were successful on all four accounts. We both spent time with each of the other 39 nations that were in attendance, ensuring that they knew and supported CSIA as the only recognized certifying body in Canada. That support was evidenced by the passing of our proposed statement that supports transparency and integrity within the global Snowsports sector. By endorsing this statement, members of ISIA confirmed a shared position regarding The Professional Ski Instructors of Europe (PSIE) and its affiliate, the Professional Ski Instructors of Canada (PSIC).
Endorsed statement
Following the formal position agreed to and submitted to the EU Commission in November 2025, ISIA members opposition to amendments to the Delegated Act were clear and unambiguous. As the issue transcends the EU’s jurisdiction and sphere of influence, this joint statement provides universal clarity and certainty for all ISIA members, partners and industry stakeholders.
Collectively, as National Governing & Professional Awarding Bodies we do not recognise PSIE or PSIC as a certifying or awarding body for Snowsport qualifications. These private companies and their associated entities are not recognised by any Snowsports authority of the ISIA.
Participation in ISIA activities and involvement with representation are reserved for individuals who meet the eligibility requirements established by the relevant governing bodies. As such, Course Conductors actively affiliated with PSIE and PSIC would not be eligible to participate in ISIA-sanctioned activities or be considered for involvement in related roles where such affiliations conflict with established participation criteria, organizational representation standards, or membership obligations.
This statement is issued to ensure that all individuals, parents and any partner organisations are fully informed before engaging in or enrolling on any courses or programmes offered by PSIE or the PSIC. All parties are committed to safeguarding the credibility and integrity of Snowsport qualifications and to supporting those pursuing legitimate, recognised pathways within their country and globally.
Finally, Jason Young, our Manager of Products and Education, has been elected to the Board as an Advisor. He is one of four advisors and earned the second highest number of votes. I know that Jason will work to ensure that the ISIA continues to represent all members.
Planning for the 2026-2027 Season
The whole team gathered in Bromont, QC for a few days of joint planning ahead of next season. We are excited about the work that is being done on our approach Ski the Canadian Way/Teach the Canadian Way, a new marketing and communications strategy, and some upgrades that will support our backend services.
Recognizing Long Term Service
On May 28, Annie Lussier, our Translator and Communications Coordinator celebrated 25 years at CSIA. Annie started as our Translator and has worked on many pieces of documentation and educational materials over the past two and half decades. More recently, she has become a valued member of the Marketing & Communications team. Beyond reliably delivering the Communiqué to all of you twice a month, Annie plays a vital role in all of our communication efforts, helping keep our membership community informed and connected.
On June 1st, Andrew Coates, our Accounting Assistant, celebrated 15 years at CSIA. Andrew started out in a part time position and after 2 years joined the team in a full-time capacity looking after Member Services. He has since moved on to run our Online Store and supports the Accounting Department.
Both Annie and Andrew embody the values that define CSIA – learning, growth, integrity and community. Congratulations and thank you to both for their long-term service to our CSIA community.
As you will have seen, we are currently recruiting for three positions within CSIA. I’m happy to announce that one of the positions was recently filled. Mr. Guy Dale, long standing CSIA Level 4 instructor and course conductor, TEC Chair and Interski Team member, was appointed as our new Program Manager. We’re happy have him on board! I look forward to introducing you to our new team members in the coming weeks.
Until next time,
Beth