Embarking on a journey to join a ski patrol is a thrilling venture for individuals passionate about skiing or snowboarding and committed to ensuring the safety of fellow winter sports enthusiasts. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to join ski patrol and to help you navigate the process involved with becoming a valued member of the ski community. Ranked up there with snowmaking, this job may be one of the hardest and equally rewarding jobs on the mountain.
1. Research Ski Resorts:
Begin your journey by researching ski resorts where you envision yourself as part of the ski patrol. Familiarize yourself with the specific resorts’ policies and requirements. You will want to look at the mix of terrain, culture of the staff, and weather conditions for that region.
2. Meet Eligibility Requirements:
Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria, which commonly include excellent skiing or snowboarding skills, physical fitness, and certifications in first aid and CPR. This is super important as you will need to be able to perform at a top level while administering care in all types of weather conditions.
3. Gain Relevant Skills and Certifications:
Enhance your skiing or snowboarding skills by taking advanced lessons. Obtain certifications such as Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC), a specialized first aid course tailored for ski patrollers.
4. Volunteer Experience:
Volunteer at local events, ski races, or community organizations to gain valuable experience. This hands-on involvement demonstrates your commitment to the winter sports community. Its important to speak up and let the staff know that you are seeking to gain as much experiences as possible so that you can better be prepared for serving as a future ski patroller.
5. Complete OEC Training:
Enroll in an Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) course, a crucial requirement for ski patrol roles. This comprehensive training prepares you for medical response in outdoor settings. This is really a mandatory training that all ski patrol staff should have under their belt. You will be surrounded by like-minded individuals – get ready for some fun!
6. Obtain Avalanche Training (If Applicable):
If you aspire to patrol in areas prone to avalanches, pursue avalanche training and certification. This additional expertise is essential for patrollers working in challenging mountainous terrain. High altitude ski resorts will more than likely run their own training once you join their team. Yearly training keeps the ski patrol team training fresh and ready for any avalanches that may occur.
7. Check for Job Openings:
If you are actively seeking how to join ski patrol you will want to regularly check for job openings or volunteer opportunities with ski patrols at your preferred resorts. Resorts often post positions on their careers websites or through local ski patrol organizations. One great way to get a leg up on being selected is to join a smaller mountain on their ski patrol team and thus get the basics under your belt before applying to larger ski resorts. Previous experience always wins!
8. Attend Ski Patrol Recruitment Events:
Attend recruitment events organized by ski patrols or any ski resort Career Days. These events provide insights into the role, allow you to meet current patrollers, and offer an opportunity to express your interest in conversational format vs. a formal interview. Be prepared to come with questions on what types of rescues they deal with the most.
9. Submit an Application:
Follow the application process outlined by Human Resources or the ski patrol department. This may involve submitting a resume, attending an interview, and eventually showcasing your skiing or snowboarding skills before being selected as a finalist.
10. Pass Ski or Snowboard Assessment:
Successfully pass a skiing or snowboarding assessment, if required. This step ensures that you possess the necessary on-mountain skills to fulfill the responsibilities of a ski patroller. Remember, if you are looking to understand how to join ski patrol, this isnt a time to showcase how fast you can ski or what vert skills you learned at Woodward ski camp – they are looking for awareness and ability to safely navigate terrain as if you were carrying an injured skier or snowboarded down the slopes.
11. Complete the Training Program:
Upon acceptance, undergo an orientation and training program provided by the ski patrol. This program covers mountain policies, emergency response protocols, and on-the-snow training. Take notes, take notes, and did I mention? take notes.
12. Maintain Certification and Training:
Stay current with certifications and engage in ongoing training. Many ski patrols require patrollers to attend regular training sessions and stay informed about emergency medical procedures. Get ready to take training in the off season. This may be CPR courses offered by the American Red Cross or by your local EMT / Fire and Rescue services.
Becoming a ski patroller is not only a commitment to safety but a dedication to fostering a sense of community on the slopes. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to joining the ranks of dedicated individuals who contribute to the enjoyment and well-being of winter sports enthusiasts. You may even need to pick out some new gear that will best suit all types of snow conditions. #KillingtonGetaway.com
