To become a ski instructor, excel at skiing and consider national certification. Find a job by checking resort websites and following their requirements.
For those who enjoy skiing, becoming a ski instructor could be the next step towards living a dream. Qualifications vary from resort to resort; However, there are some essential steps that must be taken to help truly become a ski instructor.
First, it is essential to excel at skiing before becoming a ski instructor. It should come naturally to you and you should consider yourself an above average skier. Some ski resorts may ask applicants to take a “ski test” so they can prove their level of expertise. Techniques such as skiing backwards can also be helpful when instructing a class. Other skills such as ski moguls are valuable for teaching more experienced students.
Second, to become a ski instructor, it can help to receive national certification. In America, the certification program is conducted by America’s professional ski instructors. Each country has its own certification program. While it is rarely a requirement to become a professional ski instructor, it can make you more likely to be offered a job and put you above other applicants. It will also allow you to earn a higher wage – often several dollars more per hour.
For skiing, there are three disciplines: Alpine skiing, Nordic skiing and adaptive skiing. Become certified in one or all three disciplines. There are also several levels of certification – depending on your skill. Find out which level best fits your experience, study the materials for that level and take the test. It can be written and/or physical.
Third, it is important to find a job to become a ski instructor. There are several places where a job search can begin. The Internet has many possibilities. Check resort specific websites for job postings. Most major ski resorts have an on-site ski school. They can also be a great place to look for a job. Although skiing is a seasonal sport, you can travel from country to country teaching skiing and thus have a year-round job. For example, when ski resorts are closing in the United States, they are preparing to open the season in Chile.
Finally, be prepared to follow each resort’s requirements. For example, Vail Mountain, Colorado requires its candidates to possess a current Level 1 certification. They also require a background check and several letters of recommendation before you can become a ski instructor. Another resort option, Heavenly along the California/Nevada border, prefers (but doesn’t require) certification. Heavenly also prefers a first aid certification and a high school diploma – but doesn’t require those things. The bottom line is that by doing your research you can make your dream come true and find the right place to work as a professional ski instructor.
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