PLAY.
DISCOVER.
PROFIT.
Whistler Blackcomb · Sept. 2—4, 2025
Proud Sponsor of the Summer Ops Camp
TUESDAY, SEPT. 2 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. 5:45 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. 6:45 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Check-In | Sutcliffe Room, Hilton Optional Activities | Whistler Village
Session: Risk vs. Reward | Sutcliffe Room, Hilton Vendor Showcase Cocktail Hour | Wizard’s Grill Dinner & Keynote: The Whistler Model | Merlin’s
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 3 7:30 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. 8:45 a.m. - 9:45 a.m. 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. 1:15 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Vendor Showcase Breakfast | Wizard’s Grill Session: Summer Trends Around the Globe Blackcomb Peak Family Activities Tour Peak 2 Peak Gondola Ride & Umbrella Bar Lunch | Glacier View Room, Roundhouse Lodge
Session: The Masters of Planning |
Glacier View Room, Roundhouse Lodge
2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Cloudraker Skybridge Tour
Choose Your Adventure: Whistler Bike Park Descent or Peak 2 Peak Gondola Talks
7:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Dinner & Vallea Lumina | TAG Basecamp
THURSDAY, SEPT. 4 7:30 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Vendor Showcase Breakfast | Wizard’s Grill
Session: Shifting Perceptions | Sutcliffe Room, Hilton Session: Strategic Planning for Summer Growth | Sutcliffe Room, Hilton
11:15 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Session: Events, Festivals, & Megaphones | Sutcliffe Room, Hilton Lunch with CWSAA Bike Park Forum | GLC
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Thank you for joining us at Whistler Blackcomb! Scan here to join the 2025 Summer Ops Camp WhatsApp group for updates during the event.
TUESDAY, SEPT. 2
Sasquatch Zipline Tours* Sponsored by Ziptrek Ecotours
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. 1:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ziptrek Basecamp, Whistler Village
Fly across the valley between Whistler and Blackcomb peaks on what is said to be the longest zip line in North America. *Pre-registration required.
12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Sutcliffe Room, Hilton Whistler
Attendee & Vendor Check-In
Whistler Bike Park & Rental Shop Tour* Explore one of North America’s most renowned bike parks with the team behind the scenes and the Gravity Logic crew. *Pre-registration required.
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Whistler Bike School Hut, Whistler Village
Guided Hike* Learn about the value of trails while hiking with knowledgeable staff. *Pre-registration required.
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Base of Blackcomb Gondola, Upper Village
Whistler Village Tour with Ecosign Mountain Resort Planners
2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Sutcliffe Foyer, Hilton Whistler
Understand the decisions behind Whistler’s iconic village in a walking tour with master planners.
Vendor Set-Up
3:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Wizard’s Grill, Blackcomb Daylodge
Session: Risk vs. Reward — Is the Juice Worth the Squeeze? Eric Stein, Safehold Special Risk; Tim Hendrickson, MountainGuard
4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Sutcliffe Room, Hilton Whistler
Take a deeper dive into the ROI of your summer operations, with a sharp eye on risk and insurance headwinds. We’ll unpack real examples of when summer activities deliver sweet returns—and when they don’t. Discover how to weigh the squeeze against the juice and make smart choices about what’s worth doing.
Note: 15 minute walk to next activity.
TUESDAY, SEPT. 2
Vendor Showcase Cocktail Hour
5:45 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. Wizard’s Grill, Blackcomb Daylodge
Mix, mingle, and explore the latest products and solutions from our vendor partners during this relaxed kickoff to camp.
Welcome Ceremony by Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre Ambassadors The ceremony will open with a traditional introduction, followed by stories that share the rich cultural history of the territory. The experience concludes with a powerful drum song. Whistler Blackcomb gratefully acknowledges that it operates on the shared, unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and the Lilwat7úl (Lil’wat Nation). Dinner & Keynote Presentation: The Whistler Model Belinda Trembath, Whistler Blackcomb; Virginia Cullen, Resort Municipality of Whistler; Barrett Fisher, Tourism Whistler. Moderated by Kate Roddick, Whistler Blackcomb. How has Whistler earned its place as a top summer (and winter!) destination? It takes a village—literally. Hear how local and regional stakeholders work together to boost visitation, create unique and complementary experiences, and drive long- term success. Plus, get a look at Whistler’s future master plans and what’s next for this world-class resort.
6:45 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Merlin’s Bar & Grill, Blackcomb Daylodge
7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Merlin’s Bar & Grill, Blackcomb Daylodge
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 3
Vendor Showcase Breakfast Grab breakfast and meet the vendors to learn about the latest trends and products in summer operations.
7:30 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. Wizard’s Grill, Blackcomb Daylodge
Summer Trends Around the Globe Justin Downes, Hanazono Resort, Japan; Henrik Volpert, Oberstdorf Kleinwalsertal Mountains, Germany; Janelle Visser, Arival Travel. Moderated by MJ Legault, MMGY Origin. This session will explore how resorts worldwide are reimagining summer through innovative programming, sustainability-focused development, and evolving guest expectations. We’ll highlight emerging trends, fresh ideas, and lessons that operators can apply to strengthen their own summer strategies.
8:45 a.m. - 9:45 a.m. Merlin’s Bar & Grill, Blackcomb Daylodge
Blackcomb Peak’s Family Activities Tour Ride the Blackcomb Gondola to the summit and see how Whistler designs and delivers summer programming for families, balancing engagement, scalability, and fun on the mountain. WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 3
10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Upper Village & Blackcomb Peak
POP-UP TALK: Little Legs, Big Adventures
Family programming wins when it connects the dots, with clear wayfinding, bite-sized loops, hands-on stops, and small triumphs kids can collect. Parents need facts (time estimates, stroller notes, shade, bathrooms); kids need fun (“I can lead this route”). Make the journey entertaining: stamps, trail creatures, flip-up facts, and micro-missions that keep little feet moving and active minds engaged. Offer up snack moments that reinforce the story—and leave room for repeatable rituals (“We always ring the summit bell”). Done right, this is high value at low cost, turning first-time families into summer regulars and evangelical loyalists (“We LOVE it there!”).
Peak 2 Peak Gondola Ride Soak in the views and connect with fellow attendees as we cross between Whistler and Blackcomb on one of the world’s most iconic gondola rides.
11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Blackcomb Peak to Whistler Peak
Umbrella Bar Refreshments Sponsored by Open Air Design, LLC & Meissl Open-Air Solutions, GmbH Gather for a scenic breather and refreshment at this mountaintop hotspot and see how well-executed food and beverage offerings can elevate the guest experience—and become a destination in their own right.
11:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Valley View Deck, Roundhouse Lodge
POP-UP TALK: Summit Flavor
Destination dining isn’t just about a menu; it’s about a moment. Perched in the elements, the Umbrella Bar shows how food and beverage can become a signature attraction—providing a refuge, framing the view, and telling a story of place. Lead with locality (producers, recipes, rituals) and orient the experience around alpine realities: wind, shade, seating, queuing, and quick service that still feels crafted. Think “dayparting” rituals (sunrise cof- fee, late-afternoon spritz), convenient weather pivots, and collaborative partnerships that let the bar act as a cultural host. F&B can be a reason to ride—not just a nice-to-have at the top.
12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Glacier View Room, Roundhouse Lodge
Lunch with a View Refuel ahead of a busy afternoon at one of Whistler Mountain’s most scenic spots.
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 3 The Masters of Planning Claire Humber, SE Group; Rob McSkimming, Select Contracts; Adam Schroyen, Ecosign Mountain Resort Planners. Moderated by Katie Brinton, SAM. We’ve assembled some of the top master planning minds in the industry to dive deep into how our business is evolving—here in North America and around the globe. What are the next big things in summer? What headwinds lie ahead? And what do these seasoned planners wish resorts would do more (or less) of? It’s part practical playbook, part visionary forecast—and one conversation you won’t want to miss.
1:15 p.m. - 2:15 p.m. Glacier View Room, Roundhouse Lodge
Cloudraker Skybridge & Raven’s Eye Platform Tour
2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Whistler Peak
Step out over the peaks on this jaw-dropping suspension bridge and cliffside lookout—an example of high-impact, low-footprint guest infrastructure.
POP-UP TALK: Own the Postcard
Cloudraker is more than a bridge; it’s a stage where guests claim, “I’m on top of the world.” It provides a curated and managed journey, where every guest is guided beyond the main attraction to a next stop (deck, deckchair, drink, trail). Every guest is encouraged to linger, and to spend. Designed with an intentional choreography of experience—approach paths that build suspense, safe “wow” zones, and layers of storytelling—the attraction highlights geology, weather, Indigenous partnerships, and alpine stewardship. When you design the postcard, you own the memory.
Whistler Bike Park Descent* Advanced/expert riders can take on the legendary Top of the World trail, or an advanced intermediate group will leave from Roundhouse Lodge for a descent down Whistler Peak on mountain bikes with guides from Whistler Blackcomb and the Gravity Logic team. *Pre-registration required. Peak 2 Peak Gondola Talks Hop back on the Peak 2 Peak—but choose your cabin wisely: several will host an expert leading a mini-session on these key summer ops topics: · The Value of Trails // Omer Dagan, Whistler Blackcomb · Environmental Sustainability // Elke Andrusko, Whistler Blackcomb · Scalable Ideas for All Size Operations // Claire Humber, SE Group · Breaking Through the Summer Noise // Adam Schroyen, Ecosign · A Guest-First Attraction Mindset // Rob McSkimming, Select Contracts
3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Whistler Peak
3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Whistler Peak to Blackcomb Peak
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 3
Dinner & Vallea Lumina Experience Sponsored by Moment Factory & Wiegand Sports USA
7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. TAG Basecamp, Cougar Mountain
Enjoy an experiential meal at sunset from Picnic Whistler at The Adventure Group’s rustic basecamp where attendees can chill and play games. As night- time descends, embark on Moment Factory’s Vallea Lumina experience—an immersive multimedia night adventure through the forest that blends storytell- ing, light, and sound.
Note: Buses will pick up at the Hilton starting at 6:30 p.m. and return starting at 10:15 p.m.
POP-UP TALK: After Dark, Still Outdoors
Extend a day of adventure into night without abandoning the mountain’s DNA: skip pyrotechnics and embrace place-based glow with guided twilight walks, sky stories with a local astronomer, lantern lines that map safe routes without washing out the stars, and set pieces that let the landscape breathe. The theme is belonging—guests feel part of the scenery, not spectators to a show. Broaden the demographic with layered choices (camp-chair concerts, cocoa carts, silent-disco headsets for teens, constellation cards for kids). Set a tone that respects neighbors and wildlife. Program a dependable cadence, and let the mountain’s nighttime character do the heavy lifting.
THURSDAY, SEPT. 4
7:30 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. Wizard’s Grill, Blackcomb Daylodge
Vendor Showcase Breakfast* Grab breakfast and continue conversations with our valued suppliers.
Note: 15 minute walk to next session.
8:45 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Wizard’s Grill, Blackcomb Daylodge
Vendor Breakdown
Shifting Perceptions: Moving Beyond the ‘Ski Resort in Summer’ Mindset John Entwistle, MMGY Origin; Jill Gaylord, Grand Targhee Resort, Wyo. Summer resort marketing often leans on winter audiences and messaging, lim- iting the chance to build a unique summer identity. How can your resort stand out once the snow melts? Our speakers share lessons from “Mellowstone,” Grand Targhee Resort’s new summer positioning, plus strategies for reaching summer-specific audiences, balancing operations with marketing, and showcas- ing the experiences that set your summer apart.
9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Sutcliffe Room, Hilton Whistler
THURSDAY, SEPT. 4
Strategic Planning for Summer Growth Claire Humber, SE Group
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Sutcliffe Room, Hilton Whistler
Is growing your summer business part of the plan? Whether you’ve got capital at the ready or are bootstrapping as you go, we’ll explore practical strategies for building your summer ops. From funding options and benchmarking tools to proven KPIs, you’ll walk away with the resources to launch, grow, and measure summer success.
11:15 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Sutcliffe Room, Hilton Whistler
Events, Festivals, & Megaphones: Make Some Noise for Summer Bob Andrea, Resort Municipality of Whistler; Wendy Robinson, Whistler Blackcomb. Moderated by Olivia Rowan, SAM. Events drive visitation, smooth the shoulder seasons, and give guests reasons to come back. We’ll dive into the “festivalization” trend, and how to energize your resort brand and fire up your summer revenue engine.
Lunch with CWSAA Bike Park Forum Our friends from the Canada West Ski Areas Association will join us for our final meal, offering a great opportunity to connect with even more industry colleagues as they kick-off the CWSAA Bike Park Forum.
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Garibaldi Lift Co., Whistler Village
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Whistler Bike School Hut, Whistler Village
Whistler Bike Park & Rental Shop Tour* Explore one of North America’s most renowned bike parks with the team behind the scenes and the Gravity Logic crew. *Pre-registration required.
Sasquatch Zipline Tours* Sponsored by Ziptrek Ecotours
1:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ziptrek Basecamp, Whistler Village
Fly across the valley between Whistler and Blackcomb Peaks on what is said to be the longest zip line in North America. *Pre-registration required.
Whistler Village Tour with Ecosign Mountain Resort Planners
2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Sutcliffe Foyer, Hilton Whistler
Understand the decisions behind Whistler’s iconic village in a walking tour with master planners.
THURSDAY, SEPT. 4
Squamish Via Ferrata* Sponsored by Mountain Skills Academy & Adventures
2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Sea to Sky Gondola
Take in the spectacular views on a guided via ferrata tour with the builders. *Pre-registration required.
Self-Guided Tours
Heading back to Vancouver? Stop by to see your colleagues: · Sea to Sky Gondola (45 mins from Whistler) — Gondola ride, suspension bridge, hiking trails, and live music with dining (additional cost). · Cypress Mountain (90 mins from Whistler) — Mountain coaster, scenic lift rides, axe throwing, and more. · Grouse Mountain (90 mins from Whistler) — New bike park and mountain coaster, plus scenic lift rides, the Grouse Grind trail, and more.
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49 Degrees North, Wash. Rick Brown, Director of Skier & Rider Services Ali Pasino, Snowsports School Director
Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort, Calif. Jason Smith, Resort Operations Director
Golden Skybridge, B.C. Jason Crawford, General Manager
Anakeesta, LLC, Tenn. Karen Bentz, Owner Robert Bentz, Owner
Grand Targhee Resort, Wyo. Jill Gaylord, Director of Marketing & Sales Geordie Gillett, General Manager Sarah Larson, Guest Services Manager Jordan Wilstead, Senior Marketing Manager
Aspen Skiing Company, Colo. Nathan Garfield, Patrol Director David Gray, Director of Guest Services & Lift Operations
Grouse Mountain, B.C. Chris Pastuck, Manager, Mountain Adventures
Blacktail Mountain Ski Area, Mont. Jessi Wood, General Manager
Hakuba 47, Japan Kenta Takamori, Owner & Chairperson
Bogus Basin Mountain Resort, Idaho Austin Smith, Director of Innovation & Marketing Susan Saad, Director of Community & Customer Relations Boyne Resorts, Mich. Jeremy Cooper, VP of Mountain Sports Development
Hanazono Resort, Japan / Axis Leisure Management Justin Downes, President
Inter-Mtn Enterprises, Inc. Nikki Johnston, Sales Representative
Loon Mountain, N.H. Brian Norton, President & General Manager
Brighton Resort, Utah Mike Doyle, General Manager
Massanutten Resort, Va. Adelia Valadez, Rental Shop Manager Adam Mahaffey, Operations Manager Ben Mahaffey, Rental Shop Lead Supervisor Mont Sutton, Que. Nicolas Leger-Loiselle, Director of Operations Lydia Phelps, Director of Finance Jean-Michel Ryan, CEO
Camp Fortune, Que. Erin Boucher, General Manager Hannah Grant-Dallaire, Manager of Recreational Services Gabriel Sudermann, Mountain Ops Manager Canada West Ski Areas Association Christopher Nicolson, CEO Dawn Sleiman, Office Manager
Montenius Consult Christoph Schrahe
Canyon Ski Resort, Alb. David Martel, Co-Owner Robyn Martel, Co-Owner Cypress Mountain, B.C. Matt Davies, General Manager Andoni Paleologos
Mount Washington Alpine Resort, B.C. Kayla Stockton, Marketing Manager
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Aerial Adventure Parks | Zip Lines | Challenge Courses | Climbing Towers | Tree Houses | More!
Mt. Seymour Resorts, B.C. Simon Whitehead, Director of Marketing & Sales Eddie Wood, President/Manager Mt. Ashland Ski Area, Ore. Gabby Conner, Marketing Manager Andrew Gast, General Manager Mary Snelgrove, Recreation & Events Coordinator Oberstdorf Kleinwalsertal Mountains, Germany Henrik Volpert, CEO/President Powder Mountain, Utah Kevin Mitchell, COO Michelle Mulder, Assistant Patrol Director
Vista Ridge, Alb. Bernice Later, General Manager Nathan Lupuliak, Director of Operations Whistler Blackcomb, B.C. Omer Dagan, Business Development Senior Analyst Wendy Robinson, Senior Manager, Planning & Business Development Kate Roddick, Senior Director, Base Operations & Business Development Belinda Trembath, COO
Whistler Olympic Park, B.C. Soren Robinson, Managing Director
WinSport, Alb. Andre Forget, Patrol Manager Kurt Kinnear, VP of Sport & Guest Experience Colby Lehman, Director of Ski Hill & Park Operations Bennett Thibault, Equipment Operator Burke Vindevoghel, General Counsel Jake Whitburn, Team Lead, Snowmaking & Trails Yellowstone Club, Mont. Dan Lakatos, VP of Outdoor Pursuits Luke Stratford, VP of Mountain Operations Geoff Unger, Director of Outdoor Pursuits THANK YOU! This Summer Ops Camp would not be possible without support from Whistler Blackcomb and Canada West Ski Areas Association. Thank you to the following individuals who helped us pull this great event together: Wendy Robin- son, Omer Dagan, Kate Gayton, Christopher Nicolson, and Dawn Sleiman. A special thanks to Whistler Blackcomb’s Elke Andrusko, Chloe Hajjar, Pierre Riguette, Ellody Spike Porter, and Chris Sroka for sharing their knowledge through tours and pop-up talks.
Red Mountain Resort, B.C. Andrew Lunt, General Manager
Revelstoke Adventure Resort, B.C. Jason Roe, Owner/CEO
Sea to Sky Gondola, B.C. Matthew Peake, Marketing Director
SilverStar Mountain Resort, B.C. Jes Crick, Safety Manager Emily Peck, Patrol Manager
Ski/Bike Wentworth, N.S. Jeff Sproule, Risk Manager Leslie Wilson, President
Snow Valley Ski Club, Alb. Shawn Balog, General Manager Paul Robsinon, Assistant General Manager Sun Peaks Resort, B.C. Charles Albrow, Risk Services & Patrol Manager Duncan Currie, Mountain Operations Director Tim Foster, Chief of Mountain Operations Mark Jones, Base Area Supervisor Patrol
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Bob Andrea, Manager, Events & Animation, Resort Municipality of Whistler Bob Andrea has worked in the event industry for 40 years, including 33 in Whistler. He began his career in 1985 with an event consulting firm in Halifax before moving to Whistler in 1992 to work as an event coordi- nator at Tourism Whistler. In 1994, he joined the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW), where he helped expand the resort’s event portfolio. Following the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, Bob played a key role in creating RMOW’s Festivals, Events & Animation (FE&A) program, supporting events through development, production, venue, investment, and regulation. He also served as staff representative on the FE&A Oversight Committee of Council. Today, Bob is Manager of Village Events & Animation, overseeing the planning and delivery of Whistler’s festivals and public events. Virginia Cullen, CAO, Resort Municipality of Whistler Ginny Cullen is Chief Administrative Officer for the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW), where she leads the municipal government in supporting a world-class resort community. With a background in environmental engineering and more than 20 years in consulting and executive leadership, Ginny applies systems thinking to complex mountain town challenges. She helped guide the creation of Whistler’s Smart Tourism Vision, a collabora- tive initiative with elected officials, Whistler Blackcomb, Tourism Whistler, Indigenous partners, and local busi- nesses. The initiative aims to align tourism with sustain- ability, community well-being, and livability. A strong advocate for municipalities’ role in shaping tourism, Ginny works to ensure destinations thrive by managing impacts and co-creating a resilient, sustainable future. Omer Dagan, Business Development Senior Analyst, Whistler Blackcomb Omer Dagan works in business development at Whis- tler Blackcomb and is Vice President of the Whistler Off-Road Cycling Association (WORCA), a not-for-profit dedicated to all things biking in Whistler. He has devot- ed his career to expanding opportunities for outdoor recreation, believing strongly that the outdoors should be accessible to everyone. Through his work, Omer helps connect the resort and community to mean- ingful initiatives that grow participation, expand trail networks, and encourage new riders. His leadership at WORCA reflects his passion for cycling and commitment to community engagement, while at Whistler Blackcomb he focuses on business strategies that enhance guest experiences and drive long-term growth. Whether in biking, skiing, or broader recreation, Omer is a consis- tent advocate for inclusivity and access.
Justin Downes, President, Hanazono Resort / Axis Leisure Management Based in Asia since 2007, Justin Downes is President of Beijing-headquartered Axis Leisure Management and oversees development and management of Hanazono Resort in Niseko, Japan. He has been instrumental in planning and operating more than 30 mountain resorts and indoor ski facilities across Asia, as well as in deliv- ering the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. His career includes senior roles with Melco China Resorts, Genting Secret Garden, and Hotham Skiing Company in Australia, along with the opening and development of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort in B.C. Justin is a trusted advisor to global sport organi- zations, serving on the board of Freestyle Canada and representing the International Ski Federation (FIS) to advance international initiatives in China and beyond. John Entwistle, Director of Content Strategy, MMGY Origin John Entwistle is Director of Content Strategy at MMGY Origin, where he partners with resorts such as Aspen Snowmass, Grand Targhee, and Whistler Blackcomb to develop brand, campaign, and content strategies. A marketing strategist and lifelong skier, John is pas- sionate about working with premium brands in the ski and outdoor industry. He is known for doing things differently, crafting marketing approaches that draw on cultural insights and audience understanding. His work spans multiple seasons and emphasizes authentic storytelling that resonates with resort guests. Outside of the office, John can be found skiing, mountain bik- ing, and photographing the mountain landscapes that inspire both his personal and professional life. Barrett Fisher, President & CEO, Tourism Whistler Barrett Fisher is President & CEO of Tourism Whistler, bringing three decades of tourism leadership to her role. She has been instrumental in elevating Whistler from a regional winter destination to a year-round international resort community. Barrett oversees mar- keting, communications, research, destination experi- ence, and conference sales, as well as operations of the Whistler Conference Centre, Golf Club, Visitor Centre, and Whistler.com reservations. She is passionate about strategic planning, change management, and people leadership. Under her direction, Tourism Whistler’s focus has shifted toward responsible and regenerative tourism, balancing economic success with sustainabili- ty and community well-being. Her leadership has played a critical role in Whistler’s continued reputation as a global tourism leader.
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Jill Gaylord, Director of Marketing & Sales, Grand Targhee Resort
Marie-Josée Legault, Managing Director, MMGY Origin
Jill Gaylord oversees marketing, sales, events, guest services, and product development at Grand Targhee, Wyo. She works to craft a guest experience that culti- vates the Targhee vibe throughout the entire customer journey. Before joining Targhee, Jill spent 18 years at leading advertising agencies, creating campaigns for brands like Pepsi and Mountain Dew. Today, she brings that big-brand savvy to the mountains, applying it to sell the stoke of skiing and spirit of the outdoors. Known for her creative approach, Jill reimagines guest experiences, challenges the status quo, and adapts to an ever-changing industry. When she isn’t in the moun- tains, Jill enjoys planning food-fueled travel adventures and spending time with her family. Tim Hendrickson, Senior VP and Program Manager, MountainGuard Tim Hendrickson is Senior Vice President and Program Manager for the MountainGuard insurance program, overseeing Western North American operations includ- ing sales, production, risk management, education, marketing, and claims. He began with MountainGuard in 2005 as a claims and loss control specialist, managing litigation, catastrophic loss inspections, and operational surveys. A frequent speaker at industry seminars, Tim shares expertise in insurance, liability, and loss control. His career in the ski industry began in 1997 as a ski patroller at The Canyons, Utah, where he advanced to manage ski patrol and risk management before joining MountainGuard. Tim also serves on several industry committees and boards, including Ski Utah, the Inter- mountain Ski Areas Association, and the ANSI B77 Com- mittee, advancing mountain resort safety and standards. Claire Humber, Director of Resort Planning, SE Group Claire Humber helps resort operators and developers conceive, plan, and bring to life ski and mountain resorts that balance guest experience, distinctiveness, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability. She combines systems thinking with decades of interna- tional experience across North America, Scandinavia, Iceland, Korea, and Japan. Claire has led both large and small resort projects, focusing on topics ranging from development trends and multi-season operations to guest services and branding. Known for her ability to create focus and consensus, she helps clients build for a future likely to differ from the past. Claire is a Fellow of the American Society of Landscape Architects and a member of the Urban Land Institute’s Recreation Development Council.
Marie-Josée (MJ) Legault is Managing Director at MMGY Origin, a Whistler-based creative, content, and market- ing agency specializing in outdoor sport and tourism. She excels at understanding business challenges and helping brands like Jay Peak Resort, lululemon, and Taos Ski Valley achieve their goals through compelling campaigns. MJ is the past Chair of Protect Our Winters Canada and a frequent contributor to industry organi- zations including the Outdoor Industry Association and NSAA. She is recognized for her thought leadership and ability to inspire audiences. Balancing her professional role with motherhood and motorcycling, MJ draws con- stant inspiration from the mountains she calls home, fueling both her career and her personal life. Rob McSkimming, Consultant, Select Contracts Rob McSkimming dedicated nearly four decades to Blackcomb and Whistler Blackcomb, beginning as a ski instructor in 1980 and retiring as Vice President of Business Development in 2018. During a period of rapid growth, Rob contributed to the resort’s marketing success and oversaw one of the world’s largest snow schools. He was instrumental in creating the Whistler Mountain Bike Park and co-founding the Crankworx Mountain Bike Festival, which has since expanded glob- ally. Rob also co-founded Gravity Logic, a leading bike- park design and construction company. His leadership also helped diversify Whistler’s offerings with projects like the Cloudraker Sky Bridge. Today, he consults with Select Contracts and Gravity Logic, continuing to shape the mountain resort and recreation industries. Wendy Robinson, Senior Manager, Planning and Business Development, Whistler Blackcomb With more than 28 years of experience in Whistler, Wendy Robinson brings deep expertise in mountain biking and snow industry operations. She is Senior Manager of Planning & Business Development at Whistler Blackcomb, a role that allows her to combine creativity with strategic planning to turn ideas into reality. Wendy has contributed to numerous milestone projects, including the Creekside bike park expansion, Cloudraker Skybridge & Raven’s Eye, the Fitzsimmons Express and Jersey Cream lift projects, and Blackcomb recreational trails for hiking, biking, and winter uphill access. Her responsibilities span mountain and mainte- nance planning, bike park partnerships and activations, and a wide range of development initiatives. Wendy’s work continues to shape Whistler Blackcomb’s future as a world-class year-round resort.
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Canada. His work has shaped Olympic venues, private ski clubs, and large-scale mountain villages. Memorable proj- ects include Thaiwoo (Chongli), part of the 2022 Beijing Olympics, and the HoliMont private ski club in New York. Adam holds an architecture degree from Victoria Univer- sity in New Zealand. He values engaging communities in planning to preserve culture while preparing for growth. Outside work, he is an avid skier, snowboarder, mountain biker, and surfer, inspired most by Whistler and Niseko, two of his favorite mountains. Eric Stein, Producer, Safehold Special Risk Eric Stein has more than 20 years of experience in ski industry legal and risk management. He began as a col- legiate racer in California before earning a law degree at the University of Colorado. Early in his career, Eric worked as General Counsel for the Ute Mountain Ute Indian Tribe while also coaching freeride skiing at Vail. In 1999, he joined Vail Resorts as Assistant General Counsel, working closely with mountain operations teams on lifts, con- struction, environmental issues, water rights, and events like the Birds of Prey World Cup. Later, he became VP of Risk and Insurance at Intrawest, overseeing 11 resorts and CMH Heliskiing. In 2024, Eric joined Safehold Sports as an insurance producer.
Kate Roddick, Senior Director, Base Operations & Business Development, Whistler Blackcomb Kate Roddick is Senior Director, Base Operations and Business Development at Whistler Blackcomb, oversee- ing building maintenance, base operations, planning, security, employee services, the warehouse, sign shop, and summer business development. With 20 years at the resort, she has been involved in major milestones including the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, master development agreement renewals, and Whistler Blackcomb’s acquisition by Vail Resorts. A key leader in relations with the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations, Kate helped shape the landmark Umbrella Agreement. She also champions diversity, equity and inclusion, co-founding initiatives such as the Women and Allies ERG. Kate serves on the CWSAA board and led WB’s alpine host role for the inaugural Invictus Winter Games 2025.
Adam Schroyen, Principal, Ecosign Mountain Resort Planners
Adam Schroyen is Senior Base Area Planner, Principal, and Managing Partner at Ecosign. Since joining in 2007, he has led master planning and design projects world- wide, including in China, Japan, Türkiye, the U.S., and
Comprehensive Four Season Strategic Planning: from market studies, business model forecasting and operational readiness to public & government engagement. End-to-End Project Delivery: design and execution of attractions such as bike parks, zip-lines, interpretive experiences, mountain top experiences and more - expert guidance through every phase. Global Portfolio: Successful projects across Canada, USA, UK, UAE, New Zealand, Australia, and beyond - bringing world-class summer and four-season experiences. Helping ski and mountain resorts around the world with four-season planning to grow beyond the ski season. SELECT CONTRACTS – YOUR PARTNER IN TURNING WINTER DESTINATIONS INTO THRIVING ALL-SEASON EXPERIENCES
WWW.SELECTCONTRACTS.COM info@selectcontracts.com • +1 604-938-0299 • 8988 Pemberton Meadows Rd, Pemberton BC
kyline
BUILDING THE SAFEST AND MOST INNOVATIVE ZIPLINES IN THE WORLD
“If you’ve skied or snowboarded down this route before, it’s a very touching moment to experience the same path in a different season.” - Guest at Niseko, Japan
Skyline Ziplines Ltd. | www.skylineziplines.ca | +1 (604) 905-4149 | Made in Canada
SUMMERS AT THE MOUNTAIN
Create unforgettable outdoor experiences with us
Star Lifts USA Inc. 52 Depot Street, P.O. Box 798 USA-03782 Sunapee, N.H.
www.starlifts.com
info@starlifts.com +1.603.863.0241
boarding, and sightseeing tours. Based in Vancouver, she brings professional insight and firsthand knowledge of mountain tourism. Passionate about outdoor adven- ture, Janelle enjoys motorcycle road trips, paddleboard picnics, and all-season exploration, and every winter she prays for snow with unshakable enthusiasm. Henrik Volpert, CEO, Oberstdorf Kleinwalsertal Mountains Henrik Volpert is CEO of Oberstdorf Kleinwalsertal Mountains, a cross-border alliance he has reshaped into one of the Alps’ leading destinations. Since 2015, he has overseen more than $180 million in projects, including Europe’s first 2S gondola, growing visits to 2.5 million annually. Henrik has expanded summer operations, emphasized guest-centric innovation, and built strong community partnerships while delivering sustained EBITDA growth. Raised in his family’s mountain lodge, he blends hospitality roots with financial expertise from investment banking. Henrik holds advanced degrees in International Economics and Ropeway Engineering. He also chairs Germany’s National Ski Area Association and co-founded the Global Sustainability Ski Alliance, reflect- ing his commitment to both innovation and environmen- tal responsibility.
Belinda Trembath, COO, Whistler Blackcomb Belinda Trembath has more than 30 years of experience in ski industry leadership and mountain operations. She began as a ski instructor at Mt. Hotham (Australia) where she became Vice President & General Manager in 2006. In 2019, she added oversight of Falls Creek, and in 2022 was named VP & GM of Perisher. A year later, she became VP & Chief Operating Officer of Whistler Blackcomb. From 2017–2022, she chaired the Australian Ski Areas Associ- ation, shaping national industry priorities. Belinda also sits on the boards of Tourism Whistler, the Smart Tourism Committee (Resort Municipality of Whistler), and the Whistler Blackcomb Foundation. She is recognized for her strategic leadership, operational expertise, and deep passion for mountain resort communities. Janelle Visser, Managing Editor, Arival Travel Janelle Visser is Managing Editor at Arival Travel, a global research and events company for creators of tours, activities, and attractions. She is also co-host of the Best Part of Travel podcast, exploring the business of destination experiences. With academic training in communications and tourism management, Janelle has more than seven years of guiding experience at Canadian resorts from Whistler to Tremblant, leading skiing, snow-
Setting the standard in ride innovation and customer ROI across North America for 20 years
50 Years of Worldwide Leadership in the Mountain Coaster Industry
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LET’S BUILD YOUR NEXT SUMMER ATTRACTION! Contact Eric Cylvick to begin your free site analysis ericc@ziprider.com Terra-Nova LLC of Utah • 340 South Main Street • Coalville, Utah 84017 • 435-336-8804
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CLIMB Works Design specializes in creating innovative adventure experiences for destinations worldwide. The company offers a full suite of services—including design, investment, construction, training, installation, and operations—to help clients build attractions that captivate visitors and boost engagement. Its diverse portfolio includes rides, walkways, adventure play- grounds, and distinctive accommodations, all custom- ized to blend seamlessly into environments such as parks, ski resorts, zoos, and aquariums. By integrating cutting-edge technology with tailored themes, CLIMB Works transforms ordinary spaces into extraordinary adventure destinations. With proven expertise and a commitment to creativity, the team delivers projects that enhance guest experience while driving long-term success for operators. Web: climbworksdesign.com Contacts: Jesse McVey, jesse@climbworks.com; Nick Thompson, nick@climbworks.com
Ecosign Mountain Resort Planners Ltd. is one of the world’s most experienced and innovative resort plan- ning firm. Since 1975, Ecosign has completed more than 1,000 projects across 46 countries, including six Winter Olympic Games and multiple World Alpine Champion- ship venues. Its services include resort master plan- ning, ski area design, village and land-use planning, feasibility studies, competition planning, aerial cable transport, and four-season recreation planning. Under this umbrella, Ecosign designs campgrounds, bike parks, golf facilities, and water or surf parks, ensuring amenities are well-placed and regional demand is bal- anced. Ecosign’s master plans remain integral through- out development, serving as key approval documents and guiding construction and operation. With decades of global expertise, the firm delivers sustainable, award-winning, and profitable resort destinations. Web: ecosign.com Contacts: Adam Schroyen, aschroyen@ecosign.com; Trevor Witt, twitt@ecosign.com
Since 2003, Deasonbuilt Inc. has set the standard for transporting mountain bikes uphill. With more than 70 carrier systems installed at resorts across the U.S., Canada, New Zealand, and Norway, the company has sold more lift and gondola bike carriers than any other manufacturer. Resorts choose Deasonbuilt carriers for their durable, user-friendly design: quick to load and un- load, simple to attach, and easily stackable at season’s end, minimizing storage space. Built for longevity and efficiency, Deasonbuilt continues to refine its products to meet the evolving needs of operators. Free demos are available to showcase how these carriers can deliver seamless bike transport for your resort.
With more than two decades of experience, Ecotrek Ad- venture Group is a pioneer in adventure park tourism and development. The company designs, engineers, builds, and operates a wide range of distinctive attractions, including net parks, aerial courses, suspension bridges, zip lines, and its signature Skyride. Ecotrek also inte- grates specialized wire ropes for safety and performance. Known for innovation and quality, the firm creates turn-key projects that elevate guest experiences while driving sustainable growth for destinations worldwide. Its diverse portfolio showcases a commitment to both creativity and reliability. Ecotrek is a trusted partner in delivering high-impact attractions.
Web: deasonbuilt.com Contact: Kelly Deason, kelly@deasonbuilt.com
Web: eco-trek.ca Contact: Darryl Shore, darryl@eco-trek.com
Experiential Systems, Inc. (ESI) is an ISO 9001-certified aerial adventure company with more than 30 years in operation. Its team brings over 300 years of combined experience in designing, installing, inspecting, and maintaining aerial adventure structures, including zip lines, challenge courses, climbing walls, playgrounds, tree houses, shade structures, and water slides. ESI also specializes in accessibility-focused design and serves courses built both by its own team and other companies. Additional services include consultation on course design, administration, and risk management. Fully licensed and insured, ESI adheres to or exceeds ACCT, ASTM, AEE, ACA, and CWA standards as well as applicable codes. A former ACCT Accredited Profession- al Vendor (2002–2024), ESI is now a B2B member. With extensive expertise, ESI provides safe, innovative, and inclusive adventure solutions.
Leitner-Poma of America provides a complete range of cable transport systems, including surface lifts, chairlifts, gondolas, trams, MiniMetro urban transit, inclined elevators, and industrial systems. With decades of experience and global reach, the company has installed more than 10,000 transportation systems in 61 countries, safely carrying 8 million passengers per hour. Services include custom design, engineering, manufacturing, installation, and maintenance, along with upgrades, inspections, and technical support. Its flexibility allows each system to adapt precisely to cus- tomer needs, from resorts to urban transport. Backed by a worldwide network, Leitner-Poma is recognized as a market leader in reliable, efficient, and innovative passenger transport. Web: leitner-poma.com Contacts: Erick Chaparro, erick.chaparro@leitner-poma.com; Bart Donnelly, bart.donnelly@leitnercanada.com MND is an international industrial group specializing in ropeway mobility, snowmaking, mountain safety, and leisure infrastructure. Headquartered in the French Alps, MND employs 300 people and operates through seven subsidiaries and 28 distributors worldwide. In the U.S., with offices in Eagle, Colo., and Laconia, N.H., MND has provided solutions for ski lifts, avalanche risk prevention, snowmaking systems, and ski area safety equipment for more than a decade. Its products are designed to be innovative, sustainable, and adaptable to the unique challenges of mountain environments. By integrating safety and efficiency with long-term reliability, MND supports resorts and communities in building future-ready mountain infrastructure. Web: mnd.com/en Contacts: Dennis Kinsella, dennis.kinsella@mnd.com; Fred Lahaye-Goffart, frederic.lahaye-goffart@mbs.fr
Web: experiential-systems.com Contact: Jonathan Lumb, jonathan@expsys.co
Gravity Logic was founded to share the expertise gained building Whistler Mountain Bike Park, the world’s #1 bike park, with destinations worldwide. The company designs, develops, and constructs bike trails and facilities that cater to a wide range of riders, from beginners to experts. Its team delivers projects that combine safety, creativity, and rider flow, producing trail networks that maximize enjoyment and encourage repeat visits. By offering consulting, master planning, and hands-on trail building, Gravity Logic ensures bike parks are sustainable, profitable, and memorable. Their projects create unparalleled experiences that elevate destinations and inspire loyal biking communities. Web: gravitylogic.ca Contacts: Shawn Beaudoin, shawn@gravitylogic.ca; Tom Prochazka, tom@gravitylogic.ca; Peter Sutcliffe, petersutcliffe44@gmail.com
Open Air Design partners with resorts and hospitality venues to transform outdoor spaces into year-round destinations. As the exclusive North American distributor of Meissl Open-Air Solutions, the company delivers pre- cision-engineered umbrella systems crafted in Austria. These massive, hand-built structures span up to 2,100 square feet and are designed to withstand alpine ex- tremes while providing flexible, stylish coverage. Resorts are activating patios, plazas, rooftops, and base areas with Open Air Design installations—extending seasons, boosting food-and-beverage revenue, and enhancing guest experiences. From après-ski cocktails to summer concerts, the umbrellas create versatile, weatherproof gathering spaces. The company supports projects from planning and design to installation and long-term ser- vice, ensuring operators maximize every square foot of their real estate. Web: openair-design.com; meissl.com/en Contacts: Marc Redman, marc@openair-design.com; Georg Benedek, g.benedek@meissl.com Outdoor Ventures’ Nautilus Tower offers a fully accessi- ble way for guests of all ages and abilities to climb up to 121 feet (37m) and enjoy panoramic views. Designed for resorts and attractions, the Tower provides an inclusive, low-maintenance, and high-visibility centerpiece that operates year-round with minimal staffing needs. Its flexible design supports fitness programming (stair climbing, yoga), social events (weddings, parties), and educational uses. Exterior lighting enhances visibility and theming opportunities, creating a destination that attracts attention day and night. The Nautilus Tower complements existing attractions or anchors new devel- opments, offering operators expanded revenue streams, diverse audiences, and memorable experiences. Web: outdoorventures.us Contacts: Bahman Azarm, bahman@outdoorventures.us; Cody Greene, cody@outdoorventures.us
Moment Factory is a multidisciplinary entertainment studio that creates immersive experiences blending video, lighting, sound, architecture, interactivity, and special effects. Since 2001, the Montreal-based company—with offices in Tokyo, Paris, New York, and Singapore—has delivered more than 550 projects worldwide for clients including Disney, FIFA, Microsoft, Sony, Universal Studios, and global artists. Its signa- ture Lumina Night Walks transform natural landscapes into luminous journeys with multimedia storytelling inspired by local culture. These seasonal or year-round experiences expand operating hours, diversify revenue, and attract both new and repeat visitors. More than 25 Lumina Night Walks have welcomed 5.5 million guests worldwide, alongside headline projects like The Messi Experience and installations at the Las Vegas Sphere.
Web: momentfactory.com Contact: Catherine Lareau, catherinelar@momentfactory.com
Mountain Skills Academy & Adventures (MSAA) designs, builds, and operates mountain-top infrastructure that drives year-round resort ridership and revenue. With decades of guiding and execution experience, MSAA delivers turn-key attractions such as via ferrata routes, zip lines, cliff walks, suspension bridges, glacier access systems, and trail networks. Its projects enhance inclusivity, safety, and guest appeal for all skill levels. The company also supports resorts with remote access solutions, hazard mitigation, liability control, and sus- tainable tourism development. Services span concept planning, permitting, construction, training, and guest programming, ensuring every project aligns with local character and business goals. By blending technical expertise with creative vision, MSAA helps destinations unlock new opportunities and deliver unforgettable alpine experiences.
Web: mountainskillsacademy.com Contact: Eric Dumerac, eric@mountainskillsacademy.com
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