Hello! As the winter season begins to wind down, I always find myself reflecting on what comes next for our industry. The mountains don’t go anywhere when the snow melts, and for many operators, the real question becomes: how can we make the most of what we’ve already built?
This issue takes a closer look at how resorts are extending the life and value of their infrastructure well beyond winter. I had the opportunity to speak with Karl Emond of Doppelmayr Canada about how summer lift use and the maintenance considerations required to ensure both safety and a high-quality guest experience. See how operators can include lift operations part of a year-round strategy.
We also discuss a challenge that continues to shape the future of mountain operations: climate variability. Warmer temperatures and reduced snowfall are no longer distant concerns, they are current realities. One insight that stayed with me came from a resort operator who noted that strong ski conditions are increasingly happening at the end of the season rather than the beginning. As patterns shift, resorts are being forced to adapt quickly, raising important questions about the long-term future of winter sports and mountain communities. Read the full article.
We also highlight She Grooms, a conference dedicated to empowering women in mountain operations. In a field that has traditionally been male-dominated, initiatives like this are creating space for women to build skills, confidence and lasting careers. The event brings together both women and men who are committed to building a more inclusive and supportive workforce. Learn more about how this growing movement is shaping the next generation of operators.
And while innovation and adaptation are top of mind, this issue also reminds us of something equally important: the people behind the operations. A demanding winter season can take a toll on resort staff, and mental health is becoming an increasingly important part of the conversation. See how the Katz Amsterdam Foundations is supporting mountain communities with mental health resources.
As always, don’t forget to check out our events calendar and industry news for the latest updates, and stay connected through our LinkedIn and Facebook pages and monthly e-newsletter. I’d love to hear your thoughts on these stories or any initiatives you’re seeing at your own resort. You can reach me at editor@snowopsmag.com.
Until next time,
Ligia Braidotti
204-953-2195
editor@snowopsmag.com
