Professional Development Plan: National Team Member Zoe Mavis

Congratulations to the 2021-24 PSIA-AASI National Team for all the work they’ve done promoting, supporting, and assisting with the development of PSIA-AASI education materials, programs, and activities at all levels.

As the team enters its final season, team coaches and members reflect on the work they’ve done for the association, their personal accomplishments, and their professional development plans — including how they think those plans can help you reach your goals this season.

PSIA Alpine Team Member Zoe Mavis

Q: This team has achieved a lot in a short time — including representing the association at Interski 2023, continued refinement of the Learning Connection, and working toward the target date to align certification processes. What achievements stand out to you?

A: I think we as a nation are in an exciting transition period. We are putting equal importance on teaching/people skills as technical skills. We are moving toward national alignment and have really started cementing a consistent national message with the learning connection. I feel we are laying the groundwork to move the organization into the future and continue to appeal to a greater audience of membership.

Q: Where do you want to improve this season, especially in regard to the individual people, teaching, and technical skills of the Learning Connection?

A: My main focus this season is on my ability to mentor future leaders. I think it will be imperative to maintain and broaden pathways to leadership within the organization within the next few years.

Q: What other professional goals do you have in terms of teaching and skiing?

A: I am hoping to spend more time in off piste/steep terrain. Often you can get caught in a cycle of teaching and leading clinics that mostly stay on groomed. I think the benefits of skiing in variable conditions and terrain are so great I am going to actively put myself out there this season.

Q: How can you work with and learn from other instructors on this journey?

A: I think the best part about our industry is the level of individuality that is needed to have a successful roster of instructors. Because of this, if you even look within your own school, you find a lot of individuals who have unique strengths. By figuring out your own strengths and opportunities for growth you can seek out individuals around you whose strengths complement yours. There are so many people around you who can help you grow it only takes paying attention and starting the conversation.

Q: How can your professional development plan help other instructors work to achieve their goals?

A: The process of becoming a great instructor is not linear. While certification can be one way to improve, don’t forget that there is so much more to becoming the best. The best instructor is able to honestly and expertly use their own skills and strengths to connect with others. Seek out advice and input from other instructors around you. You might be surprised at how much you learn.

Q: What does being a member of the PSIA-AASI community mean to you, and how do you share that sense of belonging with the people you teach as well, as other snow pros?

A: I believe that the community of the PSIA-AASI membership is one that will give you as much as you put in. As you continue to engage with other members and attend events you are able to connect with more and more people that you can connect with and find fellowship with. Some of my closest friends in the PSIA-ASSI community do not live near me but we have come together with a similar love for sharing the sport. As I always say, it is wonderful to have friends that want to nerd out about skiing as much as I do!