Instructing in Canada, then a career in the UK Snowsports Industry
We thought James caught up with James recently and asked him a few questions.
Which Course did you Complete?
CSIA Level 1 – 4 Week course. I then went on to work for the Ski School after for the rest of the season.
Looking back now what were the highlights of your course?
The two P’s – partying and powder!!! Canada has both these in abundance. My party highlight with out question was bringing in the New Year in such great fashion, as our chalet played venue to a packed out house party. And of course the BC powder that doesn’t stop dumping well into April means you can keep shredding until you go home.
Are you still friends with the people from your course?
Yep, I remain good friends with my course mates. With most of them now based in London we often reminisce over a pint.
Have you since used those qualifications to gain employment in the industry?
Absolutely, straight after the course I managed to get a job on the mountain as part of the Ski School instructing part time. It also helped me get a job guiding out in Val d’Isere in 2012. And now, I have recently started a position on the sales team for the Daily Mail Ski and Snowboard Magazine! Having the level 1 ski instructor qualification on my CV has played a significant role in all my job applications. Not only does it show your potential employer that you are passionate about the industry, working as an instructor will arm you with invaluable experiences to draw upon in an interview situation.
What elements of the ski industry do you enjoy?
The ski industry is an industry that is run by people who are passionate about the mountains. It’s great to be able to share that passion with colleagues and clients alike.
Would it be fair to say that your Basecamp course set you off on the right foot for a career in the ski industry?
Absolutely! As I am now in full time employment within the ski industry; I think it would be fair to say it has certainly pointed me in the right direction!
If you are interested in a Basecamp ski instructor course similar to the one James did have a look through our Banff options, and our CSIA Level 1 Instructor course starting 9th November.
