Who We Are

The Western Division of Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA-W) and the American Association of Snowboard Instructors (AASI-W), is one of nine divisions that make up the American Snowsports Education Association (ASEA, the national umbrella organizations of PSIA and AASI).

PSIA was founded in 1961 to develop a standardized system for teaching people and to unify instructors throughout the country. Since then the ASEA has grown to include 29,000 members nationwide. We are a non-profit corporation with a 501 (c) (6) tax exempt status. The charitable arm of our organization is Professional Ski Instructors Western Education Foundation, a 501 ( c) (3) non-profit corporation. Our main purpose is to support our members and advance snowsport instruction and education in the disciplines of: Alpine, Nordic, Snowboarding, Children, Adaptive, as well as Backcountry.

PSIA-W/AASI members range from full and part time instructors to alumni members, who are retired from teaching. Many of our members come from professional backgrounds such as contractors, small business owners, pilots, doctors, lawyers, and teachers. They all bring a passion for snowsports to share with others.

Our Mission:

To support our members as a part of the snowsport industry and help them to:

• Develop personally & professionally
• Create positive learning experiences
• Have more fun!

 

What We Do

Promote exceptional standards at all levels and disciplines of snow sport instruction. Build leadership in individuals through education, training and adventure. Inspire a lifelong passion for snowsports, adventure, and the mountain experience. Connect snowsport instructors of the world together in order to share, learn and grow.

 

Education & Certification Opportunities:

We provide training, education, and certification for our members. We offer three levels of certification in four different disciplines: alpine, adaptive, nordic, and snowboarding. Our accreditation programs cover: free style, backcountry, children, and seniors.

Our educational events range from a variety of clinics on teaching methodology, skiing/riding mechanics, personal improvement to women specific events, racing, and children’s programs, No matter how skilled you are, you can always improve. Becoming a member allows you endless opportunities to clinic with some of our countries top trainers whether your preference is alpine, snowboard, nordic track/skate/telemark, or if you have special interests in working with people who have physical or developmental disabilities.

Membership Benefit Package:

We have several levels of membership to meet the needs of new instructors who would like to take advantage of our exceptional training programs, or for those who are actively instructing and would like to become certified. We also offer membership rates for instructors not actively teaching but still wanting to take advantage of the member benefit package.

Why Choose PSAI/AASI

The Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) and the American Association of Snowboard Instructors (AASI) are recognized nationally and internationally as the leaders in snowsports education. We provide exceptional training, education and certification opportunities all while developing camaraderie with colleagues, the fun of learning, and the reward of teaching and sharing your passion for snowsports with others..

Our organization is committed to developing innovative and effective skiing and riding techniques and teaching strategies, as well as promoting professionalism and the profession of snowsports instruction. Our programs are fun, fulfilling, and led by some of the finest clinicians in the country.

PSIA/AASI is a member of the International Ski Instructors Association (ISIA) that unites skiing, snowboarding, telemark and nordic. The ISIA promotes collaboration in skiing/riding technique, methodology, and safety ensuring the highest standards of professional practice. Every four years the ISIA coordinates Interski (the international congress of ski instructors). This event provides instructors from around the world an opportunity to share and exchange teaching and skiing techniques.

Becoming a member of PSIA/AASI entitles you to a comprehensive benefit package including:

• Educational Programs (clinics, conventions, academies)
• Internationally Recognized Certification
• Educational Scholarships
• Professional Publications, Educational Materials (manuals & videos) & Web Based Resources
• Promotional and Professional Offers and Programs (including but not limited to equipment, accessories, lift ticket discounts, vehicles).