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Edition #3, Friday, October 31st, 2025
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- A message from Kyle Murphy, Sr Director Skier Services
- Welcome notes from our Snow School Sr. Manager team: Donna Kerr, Bartosz Barczynski and Brenda Peterson
- Training Update
- Schedulers Update
- Onboarding Update
- Snow School Safey Amsassadors
Standing Agenda - We want to hear from you
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A MESSAGE FROM KYLE
Sr. Director Skier Services
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Good afternoon WB Snow School,
As the alpine continues to be blanketed in generous early-season snowfall, I couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome you all back to Whistler Blackcomb Snow School. The mountain is already showing off, and it’s setting the stage for what promises to be an incredible season ahead.
Looking ahead to the next few weeks, the weather pattern is lining up nicely, with moisture and low temperatures in the forecast. In addition to snowfall in the alpine over the weekend, we anticipate entering a promising snowmaking window starting early next week. With the strong natural snowfall so far this fall and a favorable forecast, we’ve been fielding questions about the possibility of opening early. While we’re still three weeks out from our expected opening day—and a lot can change between now and then—there are many factors to consider beyond snow conditions. We’ll continue to keep you all updated as we get closer to our planned opening.
We’re incredibly excited to welcome our amazing supervisors back this coming Monday. Their return marks the beginning of our collective momentum, and I know they’re eager to reconnect and help set the tone for a successful start. We’re especially looking forward to welcoming those new to our leadership team. I’m happy to share that our leadership team is fully staffed for the season, along with all our support teams. Please keep an eye out end of next week for a email from your supervisor. They’ll be reaching out with essential onboarding details, including uniform distribution and other key information to help you hit the ground running. Thank you for being part of this incredible team. We’re excited to get out sliding with you all soon!
Sincerely,
Kyle Murphy
Senior Director, Skier Services
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A MESSAGE FROM DONNA
Senior Manager: Whistler Kids, Club Programs, Whistler Teens, WVSC & Teddy Bear Daycare
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🎃 Happy Halloween from Snow School!
As long as our Snow School Supervisors make it through the night without running into Jason, Freddy, or Chucky, we’re thrilled to welcome them back for the start of the season this Monday! We’re so excited to have them return — their energy, leadership, and passion are what make our Snow School truly special. They’re deeply passionate about what they do and constantly finding new ways to create unforgettable experiences for our families and youngest guests. Their dedication ensures that every moment on the mountain becomes a cherished memory.
And you — our incredible instructors — are at the heart of it all. You are a top priority, and we want this season to be one you’ll never forget. Enjoy every day teaching, sharing your love of the mountains, and making meaningful connections with your guests. And when you're off the clock, we hope you take full advantage of the slopes — skiing, snowboarding, and soaking in everything this amazing place has to offer.
Their return also means two things: Opening Day and Staff Ski Day are just around the corner!
❄️ Introducing the Whistler Kids Leadership Team – Winter 25.26
We’re proud to introduce this season’s Whistler Kids Leadership Team. You’ll notice some familiar faces in new places — we’ve made a few strategic moves to highlight the strengths of our returning supervisors and give everyone the opportunity to shine.
As in previous seasons, Blackcomb Base and Creekside will have a later opening date, giving instructors a chance to work with different supervisors as we ramp up.
- First Day of Schools on Snow: Wednesday, December 3rd
- Village Location: Ready to go for American Thanksgiving
📍 Creekside
- Minis/Club: Robin Greig
- Minis/VKP: Lulu Lavy
- Dailies: Sophie Cetin
- SDP: Eleanor Smith
- Club: Keira Murray
- Asst Manager – Support: Olivia O’Sullivan
- Manager: Hannah Bostrom
📍 Base II
- SOS: Sandy Heafey
- Club: Neil Wilson
- Support: Jemma Casey
- Manager: Leila Phillipson
📍 Blackcomb Base
- Minis: Ayla Acdol & Steph Craig
- Dailies/AC: Florencia Anguita & James Elsmie
- ETC: James (Jimmy) Flanagan
- Asst Manager: Andrea Kennedy
- Manager: Sarah Harrison
📍 Village
- Minis: Breanne McCallion & Katie Jagger
- Dailies: Lauren Milatz & Laura Rigola Sanchez
- AC/Dailies: Laura Baney
- Teens: Cam Allan
- Support: Hannah Sobey
- Asst Manager: Paul van den Berg
- Manager: Paul Shimizu
As mentioned in a previous newsletter, Managers are back and ready to support you — please reach out to them as needed. Once our Supervisors are back in the groove, they’ll be all set to help you have a successful and fun-filled season.
Wishing you all a spook-tacular Halloween and a fantastic weekend. I can’t wait to see you all soon!
Warm Regards,
Donna Kerr
Senior Manager: Whistler Kids, Club Programs, Whistler Teens, WVSC & Teddy Bear Daycare
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A MESSAGE FROM BARTOSZ
Sr. Manager Adult and Private Lessons
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Welcome to the 2025/26 Ski & Snowboard Season!
As it get colder and whiter at WB and the energy of winter returns, we’re thrilled to welcome you back to another unforgettable season at WB Snow School. With fresh faces, familiar passion, and exciting programs ahead, our management team is ready to support you and lead the charge into a season of growth, connection, and excellence on snow. Oh ya...and FUN!
Meet the Management Team:
This year, we’re proud to introduce a dynamic and passionate leadership team, each bringing their unique strengths to elevate our diverse lesson Programs.
Nadio Hachey (Whistler) – Known for his unmistakable passion and infectious energy, Nadio will be bringing his magic to the Privates world this season. His dedication to instruction, employee engagement and guest experience makes him a perfect fit to lead this space alongside...Carla Areny (Blackcomb) – A talented (and may I say zesty) thoughtful leader, Carla joins Nadio in the Privates realm, bringing her knowledge and diverse skill set to drive the Privates community. Together, they’ll be shaping a world-class Private lesson experience for our guests. And now...Paul Sauve (Everywhere) – With his unique devotion and unwavering focus, Paul will continue to drive the Adult Ultimate Group Programs. His leadership ensures these programs remain a cornerstone of our adult learning experience, blending fun, progression, and community. The 'new kid' Nathan Steele (Again... Everywhere) – We’re excited to announce that Nathan has joined the management team, overseeing our Specialty Programs. This includes ExCan, Adaptive Lessons, Women’s Programs, The Camp, and the evolving Carve Camps, which launched last year as a pilot project and now gaining momentum. Nathan’s thoughtful approach, vision and uncanny ability to build relationships will help these offerings thrive and grow.
And now your Supervisory Team:
Rose Plensky - ExCan Steep Clinics/Privates/SB Camps
Megg Howit - ExCan Backcountry Programs
Jacqueline Middleton - Adaptive Programs
Rebecca Fagan - Blackcomb Privates
Megan Conroy - Blackcomb Privates
Julian Base - Whistler Privates
Catalina Kerr - Whistler Privates
John Bradbury - Blackcomb Alpine Ultimate Groups
Andrew Deboer - Blackcomb Alpine & Base Ultimate Groups
Ariel Gabo - Blackcomb Alpine & Base Ultimate Groups
Wade Sutton - Whistler Alpine Ultimate Groups
Marc Emerson - Whistler Alpine & Base Ultimate Groups
Kelsey Rose - Whistler Alpine & Base Ultimate Groups
Ariel Gabo - Whistler Alpine & Base Ultimate Groups
Jack Pascoe - Whistler Base Ultimate Groups
In conclusion, as we gear up for another season of turns, building skills, and creating unforgettable moments, we’re grateful for the leadership of this team and the dedication of every instructor who makes WB Snow School what it is...
PS. I almost included a poem into this article...lucky for all, after a brief (but stern) conversation with the amazing Donna Kerr...I came to my senses...and spared everyone the agony
Bartosz Barczynski
Sr. Manager Adult and Private Lessons
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A MESSAGE FROM BRENDA
Sr. Manager Snow School Recruiting, Work Force Management, Alpine Clubs, Instructor Certification and Athlete Development
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Winter is in the Air!
The first snow has hit the valley, and that white line is creeping steadily down the mountain — you can feel the excitement building! We’re thrilled to welcome our Supervisor Team back on November 3, the official kickoff to what’s sure to be another incredible season.
Our supervisors are gearing up to welcome our Club families and WBSSU students, and to get our certification clinics rolling. They can’t wait to see everyone back on snow soon.
We’re also happy to share that Dick Nott is returning as Manager of Clubs, Certification, and GAP Programs. Working alongside Dick this season are:
• Natalie Morel Wood, returning to lead GAP and Course Certification Programs. Nat has been part of our Snow School leadership for many years and brings her trademark positivity and expertise back to the role.
• Richard Quirk, returning to the Roundhouse Club Programs, overseeing both the Development and Recreation teams. A longtime coach and familiar face, Rick came back to Snow School last season after a few years in other industries. We’re so happy to have him back. He’ll be having knee surgery soon, so you’ll likely find him holding court in the Roundhouse on weekends or in his office midweek, while his team of Head Coaches keeps things running smoothly on snow.
• Javier Vidal, who joins us as the newest member of our leadership team. After four years in the Privates Pod (and many more running his family business), Javier brings great energy and leadership to our Adult Club Programs. You’ll often spot him out training or connecting with pros—he’s a fantastic addition to the team!
A big welcome to our supervisors as they dive into pre-season prep!
Brenda Peterson
Snow School Recruiting, Work Force Management, Alpine Clubs, Instructor Certification and Athlete Development
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As we get closer to the season, I know you are all keen to know the plan for our Elective Training Sessions.
On the ski side of things, the plan will be relatively the same:
- Sundays – Terrain, Tactics & Technique
A really great session for skiers looking to play in all types of terrain and learn the best approaches to have the most fun. Great for those looking for a steeps session on the weekends and helpful for those training for any level (2, 3, 4 – regular or Big Mountain pathway). - Mondays – Bumps and Park
- Tuesdays – Level 2 Prep and Advanced Skiing/Teaching (Level 3 & 4 Prep)
- Wednesdays – Advanced Steeps
Great for those prepping for a Level 3 or 4 Big Mountain course. - Thursdays – Race Skills Training (Moved from Wednesdays)
This year, we'll participate in KVRS race days! - Fridays – Intro to Steeps
This really is an intro. Reserved for those who would like an introduction to off-piste terrain and prefer to stick to Teaching Steeps 1 and easy Teaching Steeps 2 terrain. A good session to prep for a Big Mountain 2 course.
Level 2 Prep and Advanced Skiing/Teaching will also be offered on Fridays.
For anyone looking to prepare for their Level 4 Skiing certification, whether regular or Big Mountain pathway, please fill out this survey:
Level 4 Training Survey – Fill out form
Please also fill this out if you are looking to apply for Level 4 Equivalency.
Stay tuned to the next newsletter for Snowboard-Specific Training sessions, schedule, and Level 4 training.
Mandatory Training
- New Staff – Please check your inboxes for an email from wbsnowandbikeschool.ca that directs you on how to sign up for your preseason mandatory training.
- Returning Staff – Please stay tuned to your inboxes for an email from your supervisor (likely to be sent out Nov 7) which will direct you to sign up for your Snow School Orientation (SSOR) and your Return Staff Training (RST).
- All Staff – Please complete the Online Training assigned to you by the "Lift". (Watch your email inbox for this assignment.) This needs to be completed before your first on-snow work day (which includes on-snow training).
Note: You do not need to complete the Wage & Hour training session (only applicable if you have a second job in Retail, etc., where shifts are scheduled in the program Legion).
See you soon!
Tracey, Harriet, JS, Jamie and Dan
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Hi everyone,
Just a quick note regarding schedules — as you begin gaining access and viewing your schedules for the first time, please take a moment to review them carefully. If you notice any discrepancies, such as incorrect start dates or other details, reach out to us using the contact emails listed below.
Additionally, please disregard any schedules showing between November 2–8, as these are for administrative use only. 🙂
Thank you for your attention and for helping ensure everything runs smoothly!
To check your Schedule:
Privates & Corporate
Whistler Kids
Schools on Snow, Recreational Club & Roundhouse Club
Adult, Ex-Can, Gap & Adaptive
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Preboarding
Thank you to everyone who has completed preboarding so far. If you still need to complete your preboarding please take a moment to get these steps done so we can process your hiring in time for the start of the season.
Reminder: If you are currently an inactive employee to access Epic Employee either select the ‘Access the alumini portal’ (returning employees) or Not Yet (All new hires).
Final Onboarding Steps
Managers have started completing hiring for return instructors who have finished preboarding. New hire instructors who have completed preboarding, your hiring will start being processed in the second week of November.
Please be on the lookout for your email from peopleconnect with Vail Resorts Credentials and final tasks in the next couple of weeks. All tasks (including your Ski/Activity) waiver will need to be completed.
Return instructors – please reach out to your managers if you have not yet received by November 14th and for new hires please reach out to Lucie (lbishop@vailresorts.com).
Enhanced Security with People Connect and IT Support Center
If you have called in recently to People Connect or IT Support Center, you may have noticed security questions are now required to verify your identity prior to receiving help. You will be asked to verify your identity with questions such as the last 4 digits of your SIN, personal email address, or Employee number for example.
Once hired and an active Vail Resorts employee, you will be required to set up your Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) and can make MFA changes at mfa.vailresorts.com If you need assistance with MFA, IT support center Calls for MFA do also require visual identity and government issued ID via teams call. please see MFA FAQs for more info
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SAFETY AMBASSADORS
Hi Everyone - we are looking for 10 Ambassadors to drive our Safety Culture in our Snow School for the 2025.26 Winter season - if you are interested please let us know. The best way to express your interest is to email wbinstnews@vailresorts.com.
Department: Snow School
Reports To: Sr. Manager, Snow School
Location: Whistler Blackcomb
Employment Type: Seasonal / Part-Time / Full-Time (as applicable)
Position Summary
The Safety Ambassador plays a key role in cultivating a culture of care and safety within the Snow School at Whistler Blackcomb. This position serves as a proactive link between frontline staff and management, promoting safe work practices, reducing injury rates, and enhancing overall well-being. The Safety Ambassador leads by example, encourages open communication, and supports the continuous improvement of safety standards across all Snow School operations.
Key Responsibilities
Culture Building
- Promote a positive and proactive safety culture grounded in care, respect, and accountability.
- Encourage peer-to-peer support and responsibility for personal and team safety.
- Recognize and celebrate safe behaviors and improvements.
Communication & Engagement
- Act as a liaison between Snow School staff and management regarding safety concerns, suggestions, and feedback.
- Facilitate regular safety check-ins, toolbox talks, and informal conversations to keep safety top-of-mind.
- Share updates on safety initiatives, incident trends, and best practices.
Incident Prevention & Response
- Monitor work environments and practices to identify potential hazards and recommend corrective actions.
- Support staff in understanding and following safety protocols and procedures.
- Assist in incident investigations and follow-ups, ensuring learnings are shared and applied.
Training & Education
- Collaborate with leadership to deliver or support safety training sessions.
- Provide mentorship and guidance to new and returning staff on safe work habits.
- Help develop and distribute educational materials related to injury prevention and wellness.
Data & Reporting
- Track and report safety observations, concerns, and improvements.
- Contribute to reducing the Injury Rate (IR) by identifying trends and promoting targeted interventions.
Qualifications & Skills
- Passion for creating a safe and supportive work environment.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to lead by example and influence others positively.
- Familiarity with Snow School operations and safety protocols.
- Experience in a leadership, training, or safety-related role is an asset.
- Commitment to confidentiality, professionalism, and continuous learning.
- Minimum two years’ experience in our Snow School and currently a Full-Time employee.
- Available for all bi-weekly Safety Ambassador meetings. Communicating information from meetings to all staff.
Benefits of the Role
- Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on team well-being and operational excellence.
- Skill development in leadership, communication, and safety management.
- Recognition as a key contributor to the Snow School’s success and culture.
- Compensation for role (4 hrs/week)
Bartosz
Bartosz Barczynski | Sr. Manager - Adult Programs & Private Lessons
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