By Roland Searle | CSIA Level 4 Instructor and Course Conductor / CSIA Interski Team Member 2027
Your first season as a ski instructor is unforgettable. It is full of excitement, challenge, and a lot of learning. I remember how overwhelming it felt. There is no guidebook that prepares you for the long days on snow, crying kids, figuring out what to teach, finding your place in the team, and keeping your body working through all of it.
If you have just finished your first season and are heading into your second, here are a few things I wish I had known earlier.
1. It is a Marathon, not a Sprint
I said yes to everything in that first season. Every lesson, every training session, every social night. It caught up with me quickly. This job can wear you down if you do not manage your energy. Take breaks when you need them. Go ski with friends, take a day trip, or just stay in. Rest is not a sign of weakness. It is part of staying sharp and enjoying the work.
2. You Are Always Learning
I used to think learning only happened in training. But I started noticing how much I learned from my guests. Every lesson gives you feedback if you are paying attention. What clicks, what does not, how people respond to your explanations. Those moments add up and shape who you are as a teacher.
3. Ask Questions
One of the best things I did was start asking questions. Even the basic ones. Why that progression? Why demo it that way? I used to think I needed to figure it all out on my own, but most instructors are happy to share what works for them. The more you ask, the more you start to see patterns and develop your own style. That is when you start to really grow.
4. The Wins Are Small, and That is the Point
Not every lesson will feel like a win. You will second guess yourself sometimes. But then someone links their first turn and smiles. Or a guest says a sincere thank you. Maybe they leave a tip or buy you a drink. Those moments matter. They remind you why you do this. They carry you through the harder days.
5. Take Care of the Machine
You do not have to train like an athlete, but your body needs to feel good to do this job well. Tight hips, sore feet from bad boots, or just being run down will catch up with you. A short warm up, a bit of stretching, and boots that actually fit make a big difference.
6. You Are Part of Something Bigger
At first it feels like it is just you and your guests out there. But this job connects you to something bigger. Your snow school, the CSIA, instructors across Canada and beyond. That sense of community is one of the best parts of this life. Lean into it.
Your second season will feel more settled. You will trust yourself more. You will start to see yourself as a teacher, not just a skier. And that is a pretty great place to be.