President's Message
I have just returned from Everest Base Camp…at Troll Mountain. This annual event encourages participants to ski the height of Everest (approx 30,000 feet / 8,800 m) in a single day. Of course, Troll Mountain is an exclusively TBar domain that compounds the endurance challenge. The evening prior includes a feast and music. There is one more element that describes Everest base camp – and that is the camp itself. Many of the participants, including families, tent overnight at the base of the slopes. The fabric village is surrounded with prayer flags, and for the young kids, this is just another average day in the mountains. Perhaps none of this is surprising in a community where four-year-olds boot pack to find the goods, and 9-year-olds on tele skis rip the terrain park.
While gazing at the sky and moonshadows cast by the almost full moon above Troll, I reflected on some recent conversations with industry champions such as Leah Muirhead and Tim Hendrickson. Both are advocates for an industry initiative presented to CWSAA members a few years ago called Ride Another Day through the Snow Angel Foundation. This initiative features a powerful narrative around slope safety. More will be shared on this at spring conference, and it represents one of the opportunities available to our industry to educate guests on safety and responsibilities on the slopes. This is an area of focus reinforced by the CWSAA Board of Directors in its approval of the organisation’s new strategic plan.
The CWSAA 2025 – 2027 plan described further in this newsletter, includes supporting industry needs relating to tenure renewal. Ski resort tenures vary greatly across the west from private ownership, to operating on farms or national park leases. In BC, many ski areas were initiated under the then-called Commercial Alpine Ski Policy and many are coming up for renewal. For resort communities to seize new opportunities, in addition to infrastructure maintenance and capital requirements in the millions of dollars, long-term certainty is needed. This is essential for the viability of the industry, thus the direction for CWSAA focus.
This topic and many others will be discussed next month as CWSAA looks forward to hosting the annual Spring Conference and Trade Show in Penticton. The trade show is sold out, and delegate registrations have paced ahead of last year. Both indicators suggest a great gathering of learning and networking. Further event details are being shared with delegates. The conference information below and online also highlights the amazing sponsors of the event, as well as the many contributing to the coordination and presentation of the valuable content. A sincere thank you to all these supporters.
Cheers,
Christopher
Industry Events
2025 CWSAA Spring Conference & Trade Show
April 28 - May 1, 2025 | Penticton, BC
✨It's not too late to Register! Prices will increase on March 28, so secure your spot today!
Full Conference Package includes:
- 3-days of sessions, breakfast, lunch & coffee breaks
- Admission to:
- Kick Off Tasting Event (April 28) - tasting of local craft beer & wine, paired with food offerings.
- Trade Show Evening Reception (April 29)
- Awards Dinner & Casino Night (April 30) - black & white theme with casino night following the awards.
➕ Add-on Option: Golf Tournament - (April 28, 1:00 pm) $75 - Almost sold out!
All fees are subject to GST & a 1.9% processing fee.
🔗 Learn more and Register for the conference HERE.
Seeking Mentors & Mentees
On April 29, join a lunch session for industry mentorship, following great feedback from last conference. This session lets you sign up as a mentor or mentee and connect with others in the industry—whether you're offering expertise or looking to learn. All attendees are welcome, regardless of age or career stage. Conference participants are encouraged to sign up in advance.
🔗 Learn more about the mentorship lunch and sign up to participate.
📅 Schedule at a Glance
- Monday April 28 - Golf Tournament 1pm tee-off (optional), Delegate Check-in & Kick Off Event (5:30 - 8:30pm)
- Tuesday April 29 - Keynote, sessions, Mentorship lunch, Trade Show evening reception
- Wednesday April 30 - sessions, Trade Show breakfast & lunch, Awards Dinner & Casino Night
- Thursday May 1 - Full day of sessions
Supporting Small Ski Areas: Donations & Volunteers Requested
CWSAA is proud to support small ski areas through various initiatives, including the Small Areas Assistance Fund. Each spring, the CWSAA Spring Conference Silent Auction raises funds for this program, directly benefiting small ski areas that are vital to our industry and local communities.
The goal this year is $20,000, and we need your help to reach it! Members are invited to pledge to donate items for the Silent Auction. We’re looking for items that will create excitement and inspire friendly bidding competition at the event. Some popular ideas include: tools, electronics, industry products/equipment, gift certificates, experiences, gift baskets etc. Please note that size-specific clothing and discount cards are not ideal for this auction. You can pledge your Silent Auction item HERE.
The Small Areas committee is also requesting volunteers to help with the auction during the conference. View the schedule and sign up to volunteer HERE.
CWSAA Webinar - AI Essentials
Rob Cupello, CSEK Creative
At the CWSAA Spring Conference, delegates will have the opportunity to participate in a half day workshop: Strategic AI: Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Smarter Decisions.
To help you get up to speed beforehand, we're offering an introductory webinar on AI. You don't have to attend both, but the webinar is a great way to learn the basics or brush up on your skills before the workshop.
April 3 Webinar: 11am - 1pm pacific (2 hours)
AI Essentials: Getting Started with Artificial Intelligence
Presenter: Rob Cupello, Chief Strategy Officer Csek Creative
Pre-registration is required. REGISTER HERE
This introductory webinar is designed for professionals who are new to artificial intelligence or looking for a refresher. Discover how AI tools can simplify everyday tasks, such as drafting emails, conducting research, and creating basic content. This session provides a foundational understanding of AI in a general context, ensuring participants feel confident exploring AI tools. The live, interactive format allows for questions and practical demonstrations, with a recording available for those unable to attend. Whether you’re starting from scratch or want to reinforce your knowledge, this webinar is the perfect way to prepare for more advanced applications in future workshops.
We encourage all CWSAA staff and members to consider the webinar as a way to familiarize themselves with AI, regardless of whether you will be attending the Spring Conference and AI Workshop at the conference.
CWSAA 2025 – 2027 Strategic Plan
Click to read the 2025 Strategic Plan Executive Summary
The work of the CWSAA organisation follows a strategic plan approved by the elected Board of Directors. These directions are initiated and informed by the priorities identified in the member surveys conducted each year. The plans are renewed at each three year window, but are used daily and reviewed annually to ensure relevance when compared to member input.
The new strategic plan cycle is for 2025 – 2027. Core pillars of the organisation such as safety and industry collaboration remain high priorities. The Board also identified incremental focus on education opportunities, and supporting industry through advocacy. The latter will include research and communication work as necessary.
The directions highlighted below determine where financial resources and human bandwidth is allocated. It also takes into account the focuses of complementary partner organisations such as Canadian Ski Council with its federal level activity and participant development.
Given Canada’s current political environment, the Board has also ensured CWSAA remains nimble, and is in a position to adapt to unforeseen circumstances.
Selkirk College Programs
SROAM 2-year diploma program now open for registration for September 2025.
If you're passionate about advancing your career in the ski industry, the Ski Resort Operations and Management (SROAM) program at Selkirk College offers a comprehensive pathway to leadership roles.
Over the past few months ski industry colleagues have been sharing great stories through their social media accounts, websites and newsletters about their experiences from the SROAM program. Check out how Hannah Roth's experience at SROAM help accelerate achieving her career goals in this video.
Hello! My name is Hannah Roth and I'm a graduate of the Ski Resort Operations & Management program at Selkirk College. I took the SROAM because I knew of it's value in the ski industry-- my supervisor at the time was also a graduate and that's how I really learned of the program. I then got in touch with fellow graduates who were in upper management positions and it really broadened my spectrum in terms of what kind of positions were out there; from lift maintenance to risk management to marketing. And low and behold, the program covers those and more. You receive such an in depth look into every department that makes up a ski resort (big or small), like putting all the pieces of a puzzle together.
This program is easily the reason why I achieved my career dreams now so quickly after graduating. "Seeing SROAM on your resume I quickly put yours on top of the application pile" Sam, the General Manager, told me after I had arrived and started working at Mount Sima. Since arriving here, I have worked with some of the best people in the industry. From installing a new snowmaking pump, to working closely with territorial and national teams, to being lead on re-opening a T Bar, the opportunities are endless and I have SROAM and the instructors to thank for it.
Hannah Roth
Outdoor Operations Manager
Mt Sima (Yukon)
SROAM 2023 Grad
Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The two-year diploma program covers key areas such as tourism marketing, customer service, human resources, lift operations, grooming, snowmaking, risk management, and resort communications.
- Hands-On Learning: Engage in field trips to various ski regions across Western Canada, providing direct exposure to resort operations and networking opportunities with industry professionals.
- Paid Work Term: Participate in a 21-week paid practicum, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real-world settings and gain valuable industry experience.
- Transferable Credits: The curriculum includes articulated business and tourism courses transferable to colleges and universities across British Columbia, offering flexibility for further education.
Located in Nelson, BC, the program places you at the heart of mountain culture, with easy access to world-class ski resorts to enhance your skills and industry connections.
🔗For more information on the SROAM program and application details, please visit: selkirk.ca/ski
Selkirk College Online Ski Industry Courses
Lift 150 Train the Trainer is in the final intake for the 2024/25 season. Registration will close mid March and reopen again at the end of the summer. This is an important online course designed to support lift supervisors or managers develop a comprehensive program for training their operators. Used across Canada to prepare supervisors and managers as trainers, Lift 150 is currently required for certification by Technical Safety BC (TSBC) for all passenger ropeway trainers in British Columbia. This program is self-paced and estimated at 20 hours, plus an exam at the end (accredited exam invigilator required).
Passenger Ropeways/lift courses (Lift 151, Lift 152 &Lift 153) - The winter semester is now underway and runs until April 14 with final exams on April 15-17. The Spring session will run from May 5 to June 24.
🔗 Learn More about the online courses & Register HERE
CWSAA Members are invited to post their jobs on the CWSAA Job Board.
SAM Magazine's Summer Ops Camp coming to Whistler
CWSAA is excited to work with SAM Magazine to bring their Summer Operations Camp to Whistler in September 2025.
The Summer Ops Camp will run from September 2-4, 2025, with the final day being morning only. The CWSAA Bike Park Forum will immediately follow starting the afternoon of September 4 and morning of September 5.
Learn More about the Summer Ops Camp HERE.
More details to follow on both events.
OHS Lessons for Ski Areas: Securing Lockers and Traffic Control Plans
In our continuous effort to enhance workplace safety, we’re sharing two recent cases from outside the ski industry that offer useful takeaways for our operations.
Securing Lockers
A serious incident at a Cold Lake area Casino (Alberta) on September 22, 2023, resulted in a worker being struck and pinned by falling lockers. The employer faces multiple charges under the Alberta Occupational Health and Safety Act and Code, including:
- Failing to ensure worker safety
- Not controlling a known hazard
- Not installing equipment per manufacturer or engineering specifications
- Not securing equipment to prevent displacement
Ski areas have also reported that inspectors often check lockers and shelving to ensure they are secure. This case serves as a reminder that any lockers or similar fixtures, whether in staff or public areas, must be securely anchored. Ski areas should regularly inspect these installations to ensure they meet safety guidelines.
Traffic Control Plans
A recent WorkSafeBC report highlights an incident at the 2024 Shambhala music festival in Salmo that resulted in a $783,068.26 penalty imposed on the Provincial Government on January 21, 2025. In this case, a designated traffic control firm had appointed trained traffic control persons (TCPs) to manage highway traffic. However, Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure workers, who were not trained TCPs, took over control from an unsafe highway position after observing stopped traffic.
The report noted that the employer had not provided clear direction regarding when and how workers should perform traffic control, nor ensured that workers adhered to proper control devices or worked from safe positions. These oversights, considered high-risk violations, emphasize the importance of clear protocols and proper training. For ski areas, this highlights that only trained personnel should manage traffic control, and that clear, site-specific directions are provided and enforced.
Canada’s Tariff Remissions Process
The Government of Canada has established a framework for requesting remission of tariffs under specific circumstances. This may apply in instances where goods used as inputs cannot be sourced domestically or reasonably from non-U.S. sources, or in other exceptional circumstances that could have severe adverse impacts on the Canadian economy. For more information visit the Canadian Government website HERE.
CWSAA Partners
EASY RESERVATIONS: drivingforce.ca
For Leasing enquiries CONTACT Jordan:
(306) 261-6110 or JArsenault@drivingforce.ca
A view of Mt. Robson west of Jasper is a treat when travelling Alberta and BC ski areas.
Quality Tires at an affordable price
Good winter tires are important for everyone in the ski industry!
Learn More about Kal Tire's current promotions
HERE.
Welcome to CWSAA
CWSAA would like to extend a big welcome to the following new Associate members this year:
- Alpine Ski Club - Ski area in the Blue Mountains of Ontario
- Alturos Destinations GmbH - specialize in crafting and implementing digitalization strategies that redefine the landscape of tourism. Skiline is a brand/product of Alturos.
- Arctic Trucks Canada - engineer and produce versatile & capable work vehicles that are dominant over snow and ice.
- ASP Computers - SkiSolv - Resort Management Software offers POS Ticketing, Ski School, Rental Shop, Restaurant, and Gift Shop Management.
- Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance BC Region - the British Columbia/Yukon region of CSIA is represented by its own not-for-profit organization whose Board is comprised of elected, volunteers.
- Canadian Wire Rope Works Ltd. - Cable splicing, winching, rigging, millwright services
- E-liberte Canada Inc - digital ecommerce solutions for ski resorts.
- Mount Evergreen - Alpine ski are in Kenora Ontario
- Fire Plus (Nutech Fire Protection & Safety Supplies) - Safety Supplies & Fire Protection Services
- MyHR - HR software and support for small to medium-sized businesses
- Mashgin - AI Checkout with computer vision
- Remec AG - professional Services and Products in the digital field for Ropeways, Facilities and Attractions
- Ridgeline Mountain Planners - Recreation Planning, Design, Consultation & Project Management
- Ridge North America - "Okanagan Gondola"
- Sécuri-Sport - Manufacturer of ski equipment, nets, signs, foam protection etc.
- SnowShepherd Ltd - Manufacturer and retailer of high quality snow sports gloves and mittens.
- Spider Mountain Excavators - a Spider Excavator company with extensive experience operating on steep slopes, remote mountainous areas, sensitive terrain, and in working environments with limited access
- Sprung Structures - Tensioned membrane structure solutions
- The Working Holiday Club - a working holiday company providing resort employers staff from international destinations
- Torrent Engineering and Equipment - Prefabricated water pump stations, controls and automation for snowmaking.
- XenonCyber Dynamics Inc - Electrical Master Planning, Modernization, SCADA, Industrial Network Architecture, Cyber Advisory and Risk Mitigation Services
The following are new Regular Members:
- Banff Gondola - Pursuit Collection - Gondola operations in Banff
- Mica Heliskiing - Heliskiing lodge 150km North of Revelstoke
CWSAA would also like to welcome back:
- Arcteryx - supplier of outerwear, uniforms and other related products
- jPrep Inc. - Elearning company providing online compliance training, custom course development and training deployment and administration services
- Wiegand Sports GmbH - Design & build alpine coasters.
Critical Incident Stress Management Mountain Community
CISM (Critical Incident Stress Management) support is provided by peers, trained by the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation, and is designed for fast relief in the 24-72 hours following critical incidents.
The Mountain Community CISM Team is available for resorts in the time immediately following an incident.
You can find information to print and display in your staff rooms at this Google Drive link (pay special attention to the CISM Brochures) PUBLIC - Print Materials and Resources - Google Drive
🔗 General information can be found on the CISM team website: Mountain Community CISM Team.
General inquiries should be forwarded directly to the CISM team coordinators at hello@mountaincism.ca.
The CISM Team is standing by for your call should you need them. To request a dispatch, call them at (604) - 670 - 2772.
Membership Dues
Reminder: In late February, CWSAA members were sent an invoice for their 2025/26 CWSAA Annual Membership via email. If you did not receive your invoice or have a change in accounting contacts, please reach out to Stephanie Avery at stephanie@cwsaa.org
Thank you to all members that have already submitted payment. We value your partnership and thank all members for their continued support and involvement in industry initiatives. Please note, that it is a requirement for all members to be in current standing to attend the CWSAA conference (April) and participate in the AGM (Summer).
Visitation Reporting
At the end of each winter season, CWSAA collects ski area visits from all ski areas in Western Canada. CWSAA will also be collecting summer visitation information from the 2024 summer season. This information is very important for the industry's advocacy's efforts in defining our overall economic impact. Individual ski area information collected through this report is kept strictly confidential. Only aggregated information by province is published.
An email was sent to ski area GMs last week requesting completion of the report once operations are completed for the 2024/25 season. If you have any questions, or did not receive this report, please contact Cynthia Thomas at marketing@cwsaa.org.
Places & Faces
CWSAA was saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Alois (Louis) Kunc, President of Canyon Ski Resort. (pictured in the centre with the family while hosting the 2019 Canada Winter Games).
“It’s with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we tell you our dad, President and owner Alois (Louie) Kunc passed away unexpectedly Saturday Feb 22 after a very short battle with a Brain tumour. He was diagnosed Feb 11th and died peacefully in hospital saturday Feb 22 around his family.
We are devastated and thank you all for your prayers and support during this difficult time. Things will undoubtedly feel different around the hill. The hill would not be what it is today without him and he will forever be missed.
He loved his family first and he loved Canyon, talking to people and always finding ways to innovate make things better and bringing his European thinking to our hill.
May he rest in peace and continue watching over us all at the hill.”
Sincerely Kunc & Martel families
View the obituary HERE.
Hildur Sinclair and Scott Zacharias of Troll Mountain enjoy a moment while 118 participants in the Everest Challenge ski 20 runs from the 2 kilometre long T-Bar equating to 30,000 vertical feet – roughly the height of Everest.
Congratulations to the team at Spring Lake Ski Hill north west of Grande Prairie for a successful season of operation. The community ski hill returned to operation following a hiatus of several years. Pictured above, the Saddle Hills County Council visited Spring Lake earlier this month.
Andy Cohen of Fernie Alpine Resort (past Chair of CWSAA and CWSAA Government Relations Committee) found a suitable room in which to share all things ski, including how business certainty through MDAs renewals generates significant investment, jobs, and tax revenue.
Matt Mosteller (Resorts of the Canadian Rockies), Jim Barr (Seekers Media), and Dave Butler (HeliCat Canada) were among many ski industry representatives at the Tourism Industry of BC Conference earlier this month.
CWSAA’s Eddie Wood (Chair) and Christopher Nicolson were invited to share an overview of the BC ski sector with Premier David Eby and Tourism Minister Spencer Chandra Herbert.
Leitner-Poma Canada has hired Bart Donnelly as part of the Western Canada team tasked with new lift sales and customer outreach in support of General Manager, Murray Frankcom, and the Kelowna office.