Req 7a10 — Major Ski Organizations

The world of skiing in the United States is supported by several key organizations. Each one has a different focus — from teaching and instruction to competition to safety on the slopes. Know who they are and what they do.

Major U.S. Ski Organizations

Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA)

Function: PSIA is the national organization for alpine ski and snowboard instructors. It establishes the American Teaching System (ATS), certifies instructors, and provides ongoing education for ski school professionals throughout the country.

When you take a lesson at any accredited ski resort in the United States, there is a good chance your instructor was trained and certified under PSIA standards.

American Association of Snowboard Instructors (AASI)

Function: AASI is the snowboard division of PSIA. It sets teaching standards, certifies snowboard instructors, and develops curriculum for snowboard instruction. PSIA and AASI share an organization but maintain separate certification tracks.

U.S. Ski & Snowboard

Function: U.S. Ski & Snowboard is the national governing body for competitive skiing and snowboarding in the United States. It selects and trains the U.S. Olympic and national teams in Alpine, Nordic, freestyle, ski jumping, and snowboarding. If you watch Americans compete in the Winter Olympics, they are representing U.S. Ski & Snowboard.

National Ski Patrol (NSP)

Function: The NSP trains and organizes ski patrollers — the first responders at ski areas across the country. Ski patrol members respond to accidents and injuries, maintain mountain safety, perform avalanche control, and provide emergency medical care. NSP members may be volunteers or paid professionals, many trained as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) or Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) technicians.

National Ski Areas Association (NSAA)

Function: The NSAA is the trade association for ski resort operators in the United States. It represents the ski industry’s business interests, promotes the Your Responsibility Code, and publishes safety and environmental standards for ski areas.

Official Resources

You have completed all ten requirements for Option A — Downhill (Alpine) Skiing. If you chose another option, continue to that section. Otherwise, head to Extended Learning.