President's Message

The CWSAA team has just completed its third in-depth debrief session of the recent Spring Conference in Penticton. As described earlier, the conference is built upon the direction of the membership. It is the survey responses and input from members and committees that completely guide the deliverables at the conference. Many thanks to the 200 or so folks who submitted their post-event surveys and have already helped shape the 2026 conference.

Penticton proved to be a popular venue. The convention centre provided a good space for networking. Some cited the inconvenience of being spread into multiple hotels, but this was offset by the strong food ratings and the ability to hold a golf tournament in April. Conference planning is a significant undertaking, and without any exaggeration, it is the contribution of members making presentations and sharing their knowledge that is most impressive. Practical and relevant information for ski area operators is the niche that CWSAA attempts to provide to as many members of our industry as possible. Another event business model would be to import more presenters; however, this would result in a significant increase in registration costs, and subsequently, a reduction in the number of industry members who would be able to attend. It is a delicate balance, and one that the Board of Directors weighs and navigates every year. What is certain, however, is that the greatest value cited by delegates is the opportunity to network and find solutions to common industry problems. Thank you to all the presenters, sponsors, and partners who made the 2025 conference a success. In April 2026, CWSAA will host its conference at the Whistler Conference Centre and the home of Whistler Blackcomb. Planning has already commenced with our Whistler Blackcomb colleagues, bringing with it a great opportunity for on-mountain learning.

The Spring Conference is often where industry work is showcased, but in reality, it is the culmination of work that occurs throughout the year by committees, working groups, and staff. It may only be illuminated at the conference. Common areas of focus include safety, lift operations, risk management, human resources, and business, to name a few. While ski areas come in different shapes and sizes, they all require support from stakeholders and governing bodies. It is this latter point that is demanding attention from CWSAA.

Ski is not an island—it is part of a larger economic and social ecosystem that is increasingly impacted by forces and decisions beyond the immediate weather forecast. For this reason, CWSAA is investing more heavily in industry narrative and helping levels of government understand the important contributions and needs of the sector so it may continue to serve the broader good. Whether it be governments seeking economic diversity and stimulation in the current climate, or business certainty through tenure renewals, CWSAA is increasingly engaged with officials to convey the opportunities created by the sector. It is important to not only paint the picture of what ski currently does—the industry must also communicate how it fits into and serves the local, regional, and national interests of the future.

Fortunately, the ski industry has a great story, and when viewed as an investment, it provides a strong return to community social and economic values. But this cannot be taken for granted. The CWSAA Board of Directors has tasked the organisation with shaping this story and advancing it for the benefit of the ski industry and its many employees, residents, and stakeholders.

Cheers
– Christopher Nicolson