3 Unique & Fulfilling Career Paths for Anyone Who Enjoys Spending Time on the Slopes
by Janey Jones
The United States sees an impressive 75 million skier days a year, with the term ‘skier days’ referring to a full day of downhill skiing by an individual skier. However, for those who want to take their love of the sport into their everyday career — rather than visiting the slopes during the season — there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you prefer to hit the slopes full time, capture the sport from behind a camera, or spend your days teaching others, here are just three fulfilling options worth considering.
Becoming an instructor
For those who find teaching to be a rewarding experience and who have extensive knowledge of skiing, becoming a ski instructor is a great career path worth considering. With the goal of working with beginners to more advanced skiers and helping them to learn to ski (as well as improve their skills on the slopes), those who wish to become an instructor will need at least a high school diploma in addition to skiing and educational experience. In addition to being skilled on the slopes, other important skills needed to be a successful ski instructor include good communication skills, and the ability to physically work in winter weather conditions. According to Best Accredited Colleges, voluntary certification is available through the Professional Ski Instructors of America — American Association of Snowboard Instructors (PSIA—AASI), though there’s no question that those who are comfortable on the mountain and find joy in helping others learn are best suited for this career.
The considerations of going pro
Becoming a professional skier can be a dream come true for many, though it’s important to take into account that reaching such a goal isn’t without a fair share of hard work, natural talent, ambition, and determination. While there aren’t any academic requirements needed to become a professional skier, many who are pros in the field often make their money via endorsements/ sponsorships, and prize money from competing. In fact, skier Lindsey Vonn, who has won multiple Olympic medals, notes that the best skiers make around $30,000 from winning competitions.
While many who pursue a career as a professional skier will seek out part time work at a ski resort or as an instructor to supplement their income, working in the film industry is another way that professional skiers can garner extra income in the field as well. Whether it’s shooting for a movie, commercial, or other advertisement, it’s important to realize that filming itself and its success often depends on a variety of factors, leaving teamwork to play a valuable role in such a job. Logistics experts, such as production managers and logistics coordinators are largely responsible in ensuring everything runs smoothly, though other factors are also at play — like finding the right set in addition to working through hard times (aka low demand for filming due to the coronavirus pandemic). While these are just a few aspects of what you may encounter at work, ensuring you’re in practice and capable of performing on the slopes will ensure you’re doing your part.
Getting behind the camera
For those who love skiing as a hobby but who don’t want to pursue a professional career in skiing, capturing the sport in action can be equally fulfilling — especially for those who may already have a background or interest in cinematography or photography. Professionally known as a sports camera operator, those who choose this path will primarily control cameras and related film equipment at sporting events for TV networks and sports teams. Other duties may involve operating drones, setting up equipment, and choosing optimal equipment and angles. With a national average salary of $32,327 per year, those who choose this career path will enjoy a fast paced work environment and potential travel opportunities.
For those who wish to pursue a career that revolves around the skiing industry, there are plenty to choose from. From options that involve getting behind the camera, finding joy in teaching others, or pursuing a professional skiing career that involves hitting the slopes full time, there are multiple engaging ways that one can immerse themselves in their love for the sport.
