Interested in becoming a certified ski or snowboard instructor? PSIA AASI, the Professional Ski Instructors of America and American Association of Snowboard Instructors, sets the standard for high-quality instruction in the United States. This article will guide you through what PSIA AASI is and how to achieve their certification to advance your teaching career.

Understanding PSIA AASI

The Professional Ski Instructors of America and American Association of Snowboard Instructors, commonly known as PSIA AASI, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of ski and snowboard instruction across the United States. This esteemed organization offers a structured pathway for instructors to develop their skills, ensuring that the standards of teaching remain high and consistent.

PSIA AASI aims to foster a community of skilled and knowledgeable instructors who can inspire and educate their students effectively. Setting rigorous standards and offering comprehensive training programs, PSIA AASI significantly contributes to the professional development of ski and snowboard instructors. This dedication to excellence allows both new and experienced instructors to continually refine their teaching techniques and advance their careers.

Click Here To Visit PSIA/ AASI Website 

Certification Levels

 

PSIA AASI offers a variety of certification levels designed to cater to different disciplines and skill sets. These certifications are structured to meet national standards, ensuring that instructors are well-prepared to teach and inspire their students. The certification tracks include specialized areas such as alpine skiing, snowboarding, adaptive sports, cross-country skiing, and telemark skiing.

Each certification level is a milestone in mastering ski or snowboard instruction. Whether you’re beginning or aiming for higher levels, PSIA AASI offers a structured pathway to achieve your professional goals.

Next, we will explore specific certification levels, beginning with Snowboard Level 1 and Alpine Level certifications.

Snowboard Level 1 Certification

The Snowboard Level 1 certification marks the first milestone for aspiring professional snowboard instructors. Candidates must be at least 15 years old and have completed a PSIA AASI educational event to be eligible. Candidates must demonstrate a fundamental understanding of snowboarding techniques, safety, and effective communication skills for this certification.

Snowboard Level 1 assessment includes a two-day evaluation where candidates’ teaching and riding skills are observed. This hands-on method ensures snowboard instructors are proficient and can effectively convey their knowledge to students.

Training usually involves on-snow clinics and sessions aimed at enhancing both riding skills and teaching methods.

One thing to keep in mind is, you do not necessarily need to have your certification to teach. Your mountain may want this in the future, but many do no require this initially. On the other hand, if your mountain is highly sought after with high level clients, their requirements may be as high as Level II or more to even be considered!

Alpine Level Certification

Aspiring ski instructors start their journey with the first step of the Alpine Level 1 assessment, a pivotal step towards professional recognition. Candidates must complete the Alpine Level 1 e-Learning Course, which offers foundational knowledge for the evaluation, before taking the assessment. Candidates must register for the assessment at least two weeks before the event.

The Alpine Level 1 assessment spans two days and evaluates candidates on their skiing skills, teaching abilities, and technical understanding of both skiing and instructional techniques. An advanced educator conducts this rigorous process, ensuring certification only for those meeting PSIA AASI’s high standards.

Preparing for Certification

Successful completion of any PSIA AASI certification hinges on thoroughly preparing to successfully complete the requirements. Snowboard Level 1 candidates must finish a specific e-learning course before their assessment. PSIA AASI also offers extensive online resources, such as video libraries and digital manuals, to assist in preparation. These resources provide valuable insights into the techniques and knowledge needed for certification.

Check your PSIA AASI division’s page for specific certification pathways and region-tailored resources. Each division may have unique requirements or additional resources that can help you better prepare for your certification assessment. New instructors have access to free e-learning courses and downloadable guides to aid their training and career development.

Candidates pursuing Alpine Level 1 certification should accumulate at least 25 hours of on-snow teaching or coaching experience before the assessment. Familiarize yourself with the PSIA National Certification Standards and obtain relevant technical manuals to enhance your readiness for the evaluation. These steps ensure candidates are well-prepared to meet PSIA AASI’s rigorous standards.

Training Programs

PSIA AASI provides a range of training programs to enhance the teaching skills and skiing abilities of ski and snowboard instructors. These programs cover various aspects of instruction, including group management, public speaking, and coaching techniques. Participation in these programs helps instructors develop the competencies needed to excel and provide high-quality instruction.

PSIA AASI aids in effective training with resources like the Matrix Video Library, which showcases exam tasks and assessments. Online workbooks for specializations like Children’s Specialist and Cross Country levels offer focused study materials. These tools help candidates achieve success from the start of their certification journey.

Innovative tools like the SkiRing enhance student confidence and improve skiing techniques, gaining popularity among instructors. Instructors’ feedback highlights the SkiRing as effective in managing student safety while promoting skill development. These resources and tools aid in teaching and attract new clients by demonstrating visible improvements in students’ skiing abilities.

Assessment Process

The assessment process is crucial for achieving PSIA AASI certification. For Alpine Level 1 certification, candidates must complete a mandatory two-day assessment. The process involves various learning experiences to prepare candidates and achieve defined outcomes. Standardized assessment criteria across all examiners and divisions ensure consistency and fairness.

During the assessment, candidates must demonstrate competency in three zones: beginner/novice, intermediate, and advanced/expert. This structure guarantees instructors can teach students at all skill levels. The assessment uses a 6-point scale to evaluate essential elements of a candidate’s performance. This comprehensive evaluation ensures that only those who meet the high standards set by PSIA AASI are certified.

The Snowboard Level 1 assessment includes practical demonstrations of snowboarding skills and teaching techniques. This hands-on approach ensures that candidates are proficient in their abilities and can effectively convey their knowledge to students. Mastering these assessments allows candidates to achieve certification and advance their careers in the snowsports industry.

Some of the skills a candidate may need to demonstrate are J-Turns, C-Turns, S-Turns, Skidded turns, Carving, Open/ Closed Turns, Basic Jumps, Traversing, etc. Make sure you prepare on all of these aspects as candidates may not know what they will be demonstrating prior.

Benefits of Certification

Earning PSIA AASI certification offers numerous benefits that can greatly enhance a ski instructor’s career prospects. Certified instructors are often seen as more competent, improving their standing within ski schools and the industry overall. This recognition often leads to increased pay and professional acknowledgment, making certification a valuable career investment.

Higher certification levels usually correlate with greater financial benefits and career advancement opportunities. PSIA AASI promotes ski and snowboard education through national brand recognition and initiatives like Learn To Ski and Snowboard Month and the Go With a Pro campaign, enhancing public interest in lessons. These efforts help certified instructors attract more students and build successful teaching careers.

Along with career advancement, certified instructors access exclusive discounts on professional gear and national resources, including a magazine and an online portal for managing their records and benefits. Scholarships for qualifying members assist with clinic costs and are typically awarded twice a year. These benefits further highlight the value of achieving PSIA AASI certification.

Continuing Education

Maintaining PSIA AASI certification requires ongoing education to keep instructors knowledgeable about the latest techniques and practices. Members must earn ceus by attending clinics and training events, ensuring they meet the requirement of at least six Continuing Education Units (CEUs) annually. This requirement ensures instructors stay current with industry developments and continuously improve their teaching skills.

PSIA AASI offers educational resources, including manuals and videos, at minimal costs to members, ensuring they stay updated on the latest instructional developments. Digital editions of essential manuals on teaching and technical skills are available to all current members through the Member Portal. These resources help instructors meet their CEU requirements and maintain their certification status.

Engaging in continuing education enhances instructors’ teaching skills and keeps them ahead in their careers. PSIA AASI’s commitment to ongoing education ensures certified instructors are well-equipped to provide high-quality instruction and inspire students.

Joining PSIA AASI

Becoming a PSIA AASI member involves current dues paid, covering July 1 to June 30 and including both division and national components. These dues grant access to a range of services and resources that enhance instructors’ professional development. Membership offers numerous benefits, including access to clinics, educational events, and professional development opportunities.

Event registration is subject to limits, prioritizing active instructors to ensure maximum engagement from experienced members. Joining PSIA AASI allows instructors to take advantage of these resources and opportunities to advance their careers and improve teaching skills.

Testimonials from Certified Instructors

Achieving PSIA AASI certification involves significant personal and professional growth. One certified instructor shared that their passion for skiing led to a fulfilling career teaching others, highlighting the joy of connecting with students and observing their progress. Many instructors echo this sentiment, finding immense satisfaction in their roles.

Another instructor noted that achieving certification opened doors to advanced teaching roles and increased earning potential in the ski industry. Professional recognition and accolades for outstanding teaching methods have significantly boosted their career. These testimonials underscore the value of certification in enhancing personal and professional development.

For some, the journey extends beyond certification. One ski instructor achieved the goal of running their own ski school, an exciting career pursued since early training days. Such stories reflect the diverse opportunities and rewards of being a certified instructor.

As for myself, I can attest that becoming a Certified Instructor has significantly improved my riding abilities and ease for teaching others.

Summary

Mastering ski instruction through PSIA AASI certification is a journey that offers numerous rewards. From the initial steps of understanding the certification levels and preparing for assessments to engaging in ongoing education and reaping the benefits of professional recognition, each stage is designed to enhance your skills and career prospects.

Whether you’re an aspiring snowboard instructor or an experienced ski instructor looking to advance, PSIA AASI provides the resources, training, and support needed to succeed. Embrace the opportunity to elevate your teaching skills, inspire your students, and achieve your professional goals with PSIA AASI certification.