Meet Julie, one of our ski and snowboard training consultants!

Julie has worked in the mountains in British Columbia and Alberta Canada, has done a snowboard training course in Wanaka, and is a qualified snowboard instructor. Read the full Q&A blog below.

How did you get into this exciting industry?

I followed that dream to go snowboarding in Canada, where I found my love for the sport. Once back in New Zealand, I worked for Cardrona and Treble Cone ski resorts. In Wanaka I did a training course and my level 1 SBINZ Certification and worked with instructor training programs. I found the Snow-sports environment very rewarding. The achievement of what you can do in the industry is amazing. In addition, working with others that have a huge passion for skiing/snowboarding and a love for teaching was inspiring.

What do you love most about working with prospective ski and snowboard instructors?

When new prospective interns tell me they are passionate about the sport, I am joyful to know how much an epic experience they will have and refine their skills in some of the world’s best locations.

Is there anything in particular that instantly makes you know that you are talking to someone who will make a GREAT instructor?

When I ask first what caught their interest, they tell me they have been skiing since they could walk or had a few lessons and are hooked! They both go down the same path of having a passion for the sport from the day they put their feet in boots.  

Is there an EA course that stands out to you above the rest?

All of our internships, whether bridging the gap, with the training and exam, straight into employment, with accommodation sorted, is an excellent start to an epic season at the resort best suited to the intern.

Places Skied and Favourite Place to Ski?

I have snowboarded recently in Japan and in many of the locations we run internship programs including New Zealand, Canada.

Canada is my favourite place! I have been snowboarding in Whistler, Lake Louise, Sunpeaks, Nakiska, and Sunshine, Banff.

While New Zealand is different, some of my best days have been at some of our great mountains at home! I have snowboarded at Treble Cone, Mt Hutt, Ohau, Remarkables, Mount Ruapehu, Coronet Peak, and Cardrona;

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What do you think we can offer that other courses struggle to provide?

Expert advice from a team of knowledgeable past and current instructors that care about guiding future instructors in the right direction that is best suited to them. We offer support from start to finish, helping interns with future opportunities past their initial programs with EA.  

What advice do you have for someone wanting to become an instructor?

‍It's an investment. You get to ride every day if you wish. Where some people dream of skiing or snowboarding once a year, you are making it a reality to improve your skills, hone in on the progression in riding and skiing, and enjoy the lifestyle that comes with being in the Snow-sports industry that is exciting and fun!

What is your favourite chairlift snack?

A pick-and-mix bag of chocolate and raisins.

Do you have any final advice or message for those considering joining?

Why not, whether it be a gap year to have a different experience or to follow your passion. The like-minded friends you make along the way you will have for life and the encouragement you will get from the other EA interns will be at the forefront of the life experiences you will gain from being an instructor and celebrating success.

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If interested in a career on the slopes, then get in touch with Julie and she can help find the right internship package for you. https://easkiandsnowboard.com/request-a-call-back