National Team 2021-24: Meet Brian Smith

Brian Smith is a member of the 2021-24 PSIA-AASI National Team where he will help set the standard for snowsports instruction. PSIA-AASI hand-selected the 37 team members – 8 coaches and 29 team members – for their range of skills that allow them to serve as inspirational leaders and build enthusiasm for learning and having fun skiing and riding.

Meet PSIA Alpine Team member Brian Smith.

Where is your home mountain?
Gore Mountain, New York and Aspen Highlands, Colorado.

What other occupations are you involved in?
Residential and commercial building industry.

Describe a teaching or learning experience that sticks out in your mind.

For the past five years, I have skied with the same client for 18-20 consecutive days every season. My client is a (now) ten-year-old boy named Trevor. Two seasons ago he and I made it our mission to hike the Aspen Highlands Bowl. It was awesome sharing in the preparation, self-arrest training, talks about altitude, and route decisions and tactics for ascent. With the support of a friend, who just happened to be my oldest daughter Ellie, Trevor successfully made the over 12,000 ft journey.

What are your specialties as a team member?

I’m a former alpine racer turned tree skiing bump freak! I love to clinic on how to clinic and connect with people.

Any relevant certifications?

Former Eastern Division Board Member and member of the Eastern Division Alpine Race Committee. PSIA-certified Alpine Level III with my Children’s Specialist 2 and Freestyle Specialist 1 credentials.

Is there anything we missed asking?

I love fly fishing, snorkeling, boating, camping, and adventuring with family.

Who is your greatest inspiration as an instructor?

My father without a doubt.

Best part of teaching?

All of it, every minute, every lift ride, every run with every friend.

What’s your favorite run at your home mountain?

Upper South Castle Chute to I-pad to the Lucky’s off Aspen Highland’s Temerity chair.