Built to Last: Women, Performance, and the Mountain Workforce
PSIC x WWSO Women in Snowsports Leadership Conference – Whistler 2026
📍 Whistler Blackcomb | 📅 March 11–13, 2026
The Professional Ski Instructors of Canada (PSIC), in collaboration with the World Women’s Snowsports Organization (WWSO), proudly present Built to Last — an inaugural leadership and professional development conference focused on women, performance, and the future of the mountain workforce. Hosted at 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.
speakers & trainers
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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*Due to unforeseen circumstances, speaker and trainer roster may change.
In partnership with
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With support by
schedule
Day 1 - March 11
"The Coachable Coach"
Meet | 9:00am Glacier View Room upstairs in the Roundhouse Lodge, Whistler Mountain
On-Snow Session | 9:00am–2:00pm
Becoming the Person You Want to Lead
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Build personal performance habits that translate to better coaching and leadership
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Learn how elite athletes approach feedback, adaptation, and technical growth
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Engage in on-snow challenges designed to stretch your edge — technically & mentally
Indoor Discussion | 4:00pm–5:30pm Mount Currie Ballroom Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa
KEYNOTE: DR. JENNIFER FRASER
Designing Training and Working Environments Where Everyone Thrives
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Psychological safety and communication patterns
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Developing a growth mindset in individuals and teams
Day 2 - March 12
“The Women’s Performance Advantage”
Meet | 9:00am Glacier View Room upstairs in the Roundhouse Lodge, Whistler Mountain
On-Snow Session | 9:00am–2:00pm
Coaching Girls & Women for Long-term Performance
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Apply gender-informed coaching strategies used by world-class programs
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Translate research into practical drills, movements, and communication styles
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Develop confidence skills and competitive resilience on snow
Indoor Discussion | 4:00pm–5:30pm Mount Currie Ballroom Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa
PANEL DISCUSSION: WWSO COACHES
Building a Sustainable, Inclusive Snowsports Program
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Developing strong female pipelines in seasonal workforces
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Retaining female professionals and challenging bias in skills assessment
Day 3 - March 13
“A Future-Ready Mountain Workforce”
Meet | 9:00am Glacier View Room upstairs in the Roundhouse Lodge, Whistler Mountain
On-Snow Session | 9:00am–2:00pm
Leadership Behaviours that Attract & Retain Talent
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Practice leadership and coaching approaches that build belonging
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Create “sticky” work cultures through feedback and communication models
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Solve on-snow scenarios that mirror real workforce challenges
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Design role descriptions that appeal across genders and generations
Indoor wrap-up | 2:00pm-2:30pm
pricing
Participants may register for Full 3-Day Pass (March 11–13, 2026) 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:
Existing PSIC members register here at a discounted rate.
Non Member Price:
Non-member registrations include a complimentary PSIC membership valid until September 30. This membership provides the same benefits as a standard PSIC membership, allowing you to stay connected with the PSIC beyond the conference.
Need Lodging?
Accommodation deals available at whistler.com.
Receive a free $75 après voucher for every 3rd night booked.
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.
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.
