Built to Last: Women, Performance, and the Mountain Workforce
PSIC x WWSO Snowsports Leadership Conference – Whistler 2027
📍 Whistler Blackcomb | 📅 March 2-4, 2027
The Professional Ski Instructors of Canada (PSIC), in collaboration with the World Women’s Snowsports Organization (WWSO), proudly present “Built to Last” — an innovative leadership and professional development conference focused on women, performance, and the future of the mountain workforce. Hosted at and supported by Whistler Blackcomb, this three-day event blends on-snow learning, facilitated workshops, and evening keynote sessions to support ski professionals, leaders, and educators who are shaping the snowsports industry.
This event is for EVERYONE; not just ski instructors, not just women...Leaders from across all arms of the snow industry have and will benefit through specific training and guidance as well as expertly facilitated discussions, networking opportunities and an inclusive platform to lend your voice to crucial conversations focusing on ensuring a thriving industry into the future.
speakers & trainers
More announcements coming soon!
Dr Jen Fraser
Educator & Author
Dr. Jennifer Fraser is an educator, researcher, and author of The Bullied Brain, whose work examines how adversity and harmful environments affect learning, leadership, performance, and long-term wellbeing.
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angela pope
WWSO Coach
Angela Pope is a Level 4 APSI Examiner Trainer, current APSI National Team member, and founder of Advancing Women in Snowsports, recognized for her leadership in developing pathways and opportunities for women in high-level ski instruction.
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christine feehan
WWSO Coach
Christine Feehan is a high-performance alpine coach, Olympic venue leader for the 2026 Winter Games, and ICF-certified executive coach, whose work focuses on keeping more girls in sport and advancing women in coaching and leadership roles.
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tracey fraser
WWSO Coach
Tracey Fraser is the Training Manager at the Whistler Blackcomb Snow School and a PSIC Level 4 Instructor and Level 4 LPT Trainer, recognized for her global experience and commitment to mentoring the next generation of ski professionals.
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In partnership with
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With support by
schedule
Day 1 - March 2nd
“The Physical Female Advantage"
On-Snow |
Development Through Foundation
Today will set the stage for a fun and safe few days on snow. Aspects introduced and discovered today can be revisited throughout the week! This conference will “move” you!
Explore how biomechanics influence function on snow, and how understanding alignment, movement, and forces can improve enjoyment, performance and safety in all situations. We’ll investigate how we can work with forces rather than against them, to influence and minimize injury risk for a long and sustainable life on snow.
Indoor |
Female Biomechanics Movement Lab
A practical exploration of female biomechanics and movement, designed to connect what we understand about the body with how it moves and performs.
Après to follow!
Day 2 - March 3rd
“Caring Climates - Where Everyone Thrives”
On-Snow |
Strengths-Based Coaching in Action
Learn tools and tactics for creating learning and training environments where everyone can thrive. On-snow sessions will focus on strengths-based coaching, supporting girls and women in sport, and creating caring, inclusive environments where all voices are heard.
Indoor |
An indoor panel will explore the psychological factors that influence confidence, belonging, performance, and participation.
Expert panel members dropping soon, stay tuned!
Day 3 - March 4th
"Leadership in Motion:
An Industry Built to Last"
On-Snow |
Leadership concepts for the next generation of snowsports management.
Look toward the future of snowsports leadership and creating opportunities for the next generation.
Indoor |
An afternoon of discussion and exploration - facilitated by WWSO and PSIC Leadership - of what is beyond the hiring process in your operations. With a goal of harnessing the power of supporting, sponsoring, developing, and promoting people, lend your voice to ensuring that leaders grow and last through generational change, and industry evolution, together.
Optional PM On-Snow |
The afternoon will also offer on snow sessions for those who prefer to debrief and discuss on snow. These sessions are lead by WWSO and PSIC trainers.
The day concludes with participant reflection, key takeaways, and a conversation about how we can each contribute to a stronger future for our industry.
Wrap up Après event!
pricing
Participants may register for Full 3-Day Pass (March 2-4, 2027) OR Single-Day Passes (Day 1, Day 2, or Day 3).
Both PSIC Member and Non-Member pricing are available.
With support from Whistler Blackcomb, all conference registrations include lift tickets (for program dates purchased.)
PSIC Member Price:
Non-Member Price:
Need Lodging?
Accommodation deals available at whistler.com.
What is this Conference all About?
Built to Last brings together PSIC & WWSO philosophies to create an inclusive, forward-looking learning environment centered on:
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Leadership development in snowsports
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Coaching girls and women for long-term success
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Attracting, retaining, and supporting women in the mountain workforce
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Building stronger, more connected professional communities
While the focus is on women in snowsports, participation is open to all who are committed to learning, leadership, and meaningful industry progress.
what is the wwso?
The World Women’s Snowsports Organization (WWSO) unites snowsports leaders across disciplines, associations, and geographies with a shared commitment to leadership, opportunity, and long-term industry sustainability. By fostering community, sharing collective knowledge, and challenging barriers on and off the mountain, WWSO empowers individuals to lead meaningful change and help shape a stronger, more inclusive future for snowsports.
