What’s life looking like these days?
It’s looking pretty good out here in the Rockies, I feel super grateful. I moved to Banff full-time in October 2024 after Nonstop, and worked my first season as an instructor at Sunshine Village. This winter I’m teaching with SkiBig3 — about two months in now.
What role did Nonstop play in getting you there?
It was the perfect launchpad, honestly. I got my certifications, but it was more than that — I got thrown into mountain life properly, had access to really great coaches, and just… built confidence. On the snow and off it. The technical side was solid, the teaching stuff was practical, but what really made the difference was the people around me. Everyone was there for the same reasons. It made the whole thing feel exciting rather than daunting, and I left feeling genuinely ready to start teaching.
Nonstop kicked it all off, and I’m now living my dream of instructing in Banff with SkiBig3.
Looking back, what sticks with you most from the season?
The fundamentals, for sure. Nonstop helped me understand my own skiing on a deeper level, which makes me a better instructor — I can actually explain why something works, and adapt to how different people learn. That stuff has been really useful.
But honestly? The people. I met skiers from all over the world, all just really into it. And I’ve found that same energy with the SkiBig3 team here. It follows you around when you’re in the right places.
The other thing is just learning to love all of it. Early starts, crazy weather, powder days, watching someone nail something for the first time. That’s the job, and I love it.
Any advice for someone considering an instructor course?
Just go for it. Be curious, ask questions, don’t hold back. The qualification matters, but everything around it — the skills, the friendships, the experiences — that’s the stuff that stays with you.
Thanks Riley, keep it up. See you out there.
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