INSTRUCTOR HUB

Resources for new and experienced instructors

Steps to achieve PSIA-AASI Instructor Certification

  1. Become a Member: Join the Professional Ski Instructors of America and American Association of Snowboard Instructors (PSIA-AASI) to unlock resources, region connections, and digital manuals.
  2. Complete Free Online Courses: Finish introductory e-learning modules like the Course for New Instructors and discipline-specific beginner guides.
  3. Take Level I Digital Course: Complete the required online learning prerequisite for your specific discipline.
  4. Attend On-Snow Training: Participate in local resort or regional clinics for coaching and feedback.
  5. Pass the Assessment: Register via the event calendar for your on-snow evaluation.
Learn how to become a ski instructor: Alpine level I certification (PSIA-AASI)       VIDEO (4 minutes)
Learn how to become a snowboard instructor: Snowboard level I certification (PSIA-AASI)     VIDEO (4 minutes)

instructional videos for psia-aasi alpine certification

Instructor Bob Hayes – PSIA Alpine certified instructor and Snowsports Director for The Unrecables

Introduction to PSIA Alpine Level I Ski Instructor’s Series (length 3:28)

PSIA Alpine Level I Training for a level 1 skier – step 1: Introduction and Equipment  (length 4:24)

PSIA Alpine Level I Training for a level 1 skier – steps 2-4: Walking, Stepping and Sliding  (length 5:47)

PSIA Alpine Level I Training for a level 2 skier – steps 5-8: Gliding, Wedge and Lift access  (length 4:45)

PSIA Alpine Level I Training for a level 3 skier – steps 9-10: Linking Wedge Turns  (length 5:15)

PSIA Alpine Level I Training for a level 4 skier – steps 11-13: Mileage, Guidance, Matching and Sliding  (length 7:10)

PSIA Alpine Level I Instructor Exam Preparation  (length 26:04)

resource library

Adaptive Encyclopedia: general overview of common physical and cognitive disabilities and related medications.

Adaptive Level I Workbook: an introduction to teaching adaptive snowsports and helps you prepare for your level I certification exam.  

Guide for New Instructors: general introduction to teaching skiing and snowboarding.

New Instructor Resources: a list of online resources for new instructors. 

New Snowsports Instructor Guide: introduction to snowsports teaching with resources and advice to help pass PSIA-AASI level I certification exam. 

Teaching Guidelines for Children: reviews the CAP model, Maslow’s hierarchy, the Kids Teaching Model, and more.

Alpine Specific Resources

Alpine Certification Standards: provides the assessment criteria for each category examined for each certification level (I-III).

Alpine Level I Study Guide (1996): suggested steps for teaching novice through beginning wedge christie lessons.

Guide for Teaching Skiers with Cognitive Diagnoses: a detailed look at equipment and instruction for skiers with a cognitive diagnosis.

Guide for Teaching Skiers with a Visual Impairment: a detailed look at equipment and instruction for skiers with a visual impairment. 

Level I Alpine Certification Study Guide (2022): outlines the daily schedule, learning outcomes, and assessment activities for Level I Alpine certification.

Snowboarding Specific Resources

Adaptive Snowboard Certification Pathways: a detailed description of the adaptive SB certification process, expectations, and standards for passing your exam. 

Adaptive Snowboard Resource Guide (2008): general overview of adaptive snowboarding and equipment.

Adaptive Snowboarding Guide (2013): a complete guide to teaching adaptive snowboarding – equipment and teaching strategies.  

Disabilities Related to Specific Categories of Adaptive Snowboarders: list of possible disabilities and medical diagnoses for each category of adaptive SBer.

Instructing Snowboarders with a Visual Impairment: a brief overview of evaluating and guiding snowboarders with a visual impairment. 

Movement Analysis of the Snowboard Turn: a detailed and technical exploration of the snowboard turn. 

Snowboarding Technical Skills Performance Guide: a detailed explanation of each aspect of the certification exam with performance expectations.