A New Direction

This week, CEO Kirsten Lynch announced a significant annual investment in our employees. This includes a new base minimum wage of $20 across the enterprise. In addition, there will be new seasonal frontline leadership development opportunities, increases in affordable housing options, discounts of 40% at all Vail Resorts Retail for the 22/23 season, and a new $4 million investment in HR. 

At Okemo Ski & Ride School, we are excited about this announcement and how it will increase our wages. We know this announcement has left some unanswered questions around compensation for our returning employees and we are confident that these announced pay increases will positively impact our entire staff as well. It's exciting and encouraging to see improvements coming in compensation, housing, retail discounts, and human resources efficiency.

Our employees within Vail Resorts have spoken and leadership has responded with some impressive changes. We are committed to providing you with more information as soon as we can and look forward to sharing more positive news with you

- Steve Clark - Director, Skier Services & Chris Saylor - Sr. Manager, Ski & Ride School

Who Wants to Join Okemo Ski & Ride School? 

We are hosting a free clinic on March 26 and 27 called “A Day in the Life of an Instructor”. If you know anyone who is enthusiastic, engaging, and interested in sharing their passion for the sport, send them the sign up link below.

TOTAL PLAY Webinar Series: Making Kids Lessons More Fun

If you are looking to boost your kids knowledge, up the entertainment factor in your lessons, or prepare for a children’s accreditation, look no further! Led by the one and only Griz Caudle, you will learn how to set-up a great learning environment so you and the kids have a great time. 

This program consists of five, one-hour weekly webinars. PSIA-E Members who participate in all five sessions and complete all homework assignments will receive six continuing education credits. The next two series will start in April. You can choose the series where the start time is 2:00 PM each scheduled day or you can choose the series with the 7:00 PM start time. 

Please check the start time when registering, so you are sure you've chosen the series with the time that is most convenient for you. 

Visit the PSIE-E Website for more information and to register. 

TOTAL PLAY: Taking Ownership Through Applied Learning, Prepare Learn Apply Yourself

Kids on Lifts

There is nothing more important than the safety and security of our students on the mountain while they're skiing and riding with us.

Educating our students on chairlift loading, riding, and unloading is a critical part of keeping everyone safe. It's critically important that each of us reviews our "Kids on Lifts" Policy to ensure we have a full understanding of the rules and guidelines in place to keep our students safe. 

Review the policy by watching the video linked below. If you have questions about our safety, please reach out to your supervisor or manager. 

Uniform Return Process

If you ARE returning next season:

• If you are 100% positive that you are returning next season, please keep your uniform.
• If you are returning but can’t store your gear over the summer, put your washed uniform in a bag with your name and put a note saying “returning”.
• Please keep your nametags and your caps/beanies.

If you are NOT returning next season:

• Washed uniforms must be returned within 3 days of your last day
• All uniforms must be returned to the uniform department at the Cole House on the Jackson Gore side ONLY. You must return only your uniform.
• The breezeway for access to the return window will be open 24/7 for returns starting March 19. Before this date, please check with your supervisor to ensure the office will be open for drop-offs.
• Before washing your uniform, please get Nikwax waterproofing from the uniform department or ask your supervisor.
• Please check all pockets to make sure all are empty. 
• A failure to return ALL uniform items will result in FEE for each item. Employees will receive a bill.
• A fee will be charged for items damaged beyond reasonable wear and tear.
• Employees who owe payment will be considered not eligible for rehire until payment is received.
• Ball caps and beanies are yours to keep.  

Please reach out to Tammy Bonk at (802) 228-1635 with any questions.

Spend your Summer in Australia

Our Australian resorts are excited to welcome back international staff - that could be you! If you're interested in spending your summer in Australia, there are openings instructors at Perisher, Falls Creek, and Mt. Hotham.