Snowboarding is not a passing trend. In 2000, the National Ski Areas Association reported 4.3 million snowboarders in the United States. That number rose to 5.2 million by 2009. The female rider population increased from 25.9 percent in 2000 to 30.3 percent in 2009. The survey results also indicated that 25.8 percent of snowboarders earn over $100,000 annually, and 73.3 percent earn over $50,000. These statistics indicate a growing need for trained snowboard instructors.
Taking Lessons
The resort hiring manager may recruit natural-born snowboarders with advanced riding skills, but teaching skills are also important. Take lessons with snowboard instructors who have earned their Level III or Level IV examiner level of certification. Observe their verbal and visual cues, as well as the words they use to describe each movement.
On-the-Job Training
All resorts offer on-the-job training for snowboard instructors. These workshops usually take place in the morning, before the lifts open for the general public. Attendance may not be mandatory, but participation will improve your teaching skills, increase your pay rate and help you require the skills needed for certification. Some snowboard school directors factor in workshop attendance when considering which instructors get a class when the resort is relatively quiet.
The Certification Process
AASI, the American Association of Snowboard Instructors, offers four levels of certification. This organization provides specialized workshops, which prepare instructors for the certification exams. Once you are employed at a resort, contact the local AASI office to receive a workshop schedule. You will also receive a subscription to "32 Degrees Magazine," which features helpful articles about snow-sport instruction. AASI also offers an annual "Rider Rally," a five-day educational event held at a different resort each year.
Training Camps
Multi-week training camps are expensive, but worth it if you can afford them. Most courses last from two to 13 weeks. Prices include accommodations, transportation to the resort, a resort pass and instruction. Most courses include on-snow video analysis, snowboard tuning seminars and lift-line priorities. Some include certification exams and AASI membership in their fees. Training camps, depending on the organization, take place in Colorado, eastern or western Canada or Europe.
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