Introduction

WELCOME TO THE MOUNTAIN SPORTS SCHOOL

Dear Mountain Sports Team,

Welcome to Big Sky Resort’s Mountain Sports School. We’re glad you’re here and look forward to seeing you grow, contribute, and make a lasting impression. 

As part of the Mountain Sports School, you’ll be in close contact with our guests – playing a key part in shaping their vacation experience. Your enthusiasm and awareness help turn ordinary lessons into unforgettable mountain memories and inspire guests to return to Big Sky Resort and our school.

You’ve chosen a profession that blends passion, purpose, and adventure. Teaching skiing and snowboarding isn’t just about technique – it’s about helping others discover confidence, joy, and new possibilities on the mountain. You are leaders in the mountain sports industry, and your enthusiasm will energize both guests and teammates.

We’re committed to fostering a work environment that encourages smart decision-making, supports personal growth, and celebrates progress. Whether you’re mastering a new teaching method, helping a guest overcome a challenge, or simply sharing the joy of the mountain, every day offers a chance to refine your skills, share your expertise, and elevate the experience for others.

We value respectful input and believe that feedback is key to personal and team growth. Understanding our policies and procedures will help you contribute meaningfully and with confidence.

Our programs emphasize safety, professionalism, and inspiration. We invite you to stay curious – try new approaches, learn from others, and explore what makes our school exceptional. With your commitment and energy, we’ll continue to be recognized as one of the finest mountain sports schools in the country and beyond.

Here’s to a season filled with adventure, learning, and accomplishment. Let’s make it unforgettable.

Warm regards,

Christine Baker

Christine Baker - VP Mountain Sports

Matt Ruuhela - Mountain Village Senior Manager

Paul Monk - Snowboard Program Manager

Francesca Pallivard-Cain - Madison Program Manager

Paul Mannelin - Adult Program Manager

Zoe Mavis - Traning Manager

Lucia Damberg - Business Manager

Arch Oliver - Operations Manager

Denise Wade - Nordic Center Manager

Christine Baker/VP of Mountain Sports (406) 995-5736 

Mountain Village

MV Office (406) 995-5743 

Matt Ruuhela/Mountain Village Senior Manager (406) 995-5730 

Tom Conway/Children’s Program Manager (406) 995-5378  

Paul Monk/Snowboard Program Manager (406) 995-5737 

Paul Mannelin/Adult Program Manager (406) 995-5738

Madison Base 

MB Office (406) 993-6062

Francesca Pallivard-Cain Madison Program Manager (406) 993-6087 

Nordic Center

Nordic Office (406) 993-5780

Montage Sales Desk

Montage (406) 995-5028

PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH KEY RESOURCES

  • Read and understand the Big Sky Resort Employee Handbook and the Mountain Sports Instructor Manual.

  • Secure Housing & Transportation

  • Arrange suitable accommodations and reliable daily transportation to and from work.

MAINTAIN ACCURATE TIMEKEEPING

  • Use a watch or device synchronized to real-time to ensure punctuality.

  • Stay Connected

  • Maintain access to email and a reliable smartphone for flaik use.

  • Be reachable during your workday and able to promptly report emergencies.

PROTECT PERSONAL BELONGINGS

  • Lock your locker and safeguard personal property.

  • The resort is not responsible for theft, loss, or damage.

MAINTAIN EQUIPMENT

  • Ensure your gear (skis/snowboard, boots, poles, helmet, etc.) is in good working condition.

DEMONSTRATE PROFESSIONALISM

  • Be punctual and prepared for all aspects of your role, including lessons, meetings, and training.

 

EXPECTATIONS

If you’ve joined our team for the right reasons—

  • A love for mountain sports and a desire to continually improve,

  • A genuine passion for sharing your knowledge and inspiring others,

  • A commitment to helping students learn and have fun in a safe, supportive environment—then the following expectations may feel like second nature.

Welcome Phone Numbers Expectations

PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

  • Demonstrate a sincere interest in your sport and the profession of teaching it.

  • Maintain a cooperative, respectful, and friendly attitude toward managers, co-workers, and guests.

  • Be approachable and consistently convey professionalism, warmth, and courtesy.

APPEARANCE & PRESENTATION

  • Present yourself in a clean, well-groomed, and professional manner. Refer to the Uniforms & Appearance section for specific guidelines.

PUNCTUALITY & LESSON DELIVERY

  • Arrive on time and teach the full duration of your scheduled lessons.

  • Conclude each lesson by thanking your students and reinforcing what they’ve learned or how they’ve progressed.

  • Encourage appropriate follow-up lessons and communicate their benefits clearly.

STUDENT INTERACTION

  • Avoid showing off or speaking condescendingly to students.

  • Foster a positive learning environment that builds confidence and enjoyment.

TEAM SUPPORT & COLLABORATION

  • Show respect for your peers and contribute to a culture where all team members shine.

  • Assist co-workers when possible and represent the resort with pride.

PREPAREDNESS

  • Carry essential items safely: notebook, pen, Sharpie, trail map, wax, scraper, sunscreen, and rubber gloves.

CONFLICT RESOLUTION

  • If you experience a disagreement with a supervisor or fellow instructor, choose a private and appropriate time to address it.

  • Avoid discussing conflicts in front of guests or in high-traffic areas such as the sales desk.

Appearance >