National Team 2021-24: Meet Michael Rogan

Michael Rogan 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 Coach Michael Rogan.

Where is your home mountain?

Heavenly Resort, California, and Portillo, Chile.

What other occupations are you involved in?

I am a snowmaker in the summertime – I go to South America.

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

I once spent time with a survivor of the Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571 that crashed in the Andes – the story inspired the book and film Alive: The Story of the Andes Survivors. It was his first time on snow since the crash. It taught me that sometimes skiing is not the important part of a lesson.

What are your specialties as a team member?

General alpine.

Any relevant certifications?

Alpine Level III. Children’s Specialist 2. I have my explosives license in Chile for avalanche mitigation.

What would you say to members about learning from team members?

I hope that our members take the opportunity to get to know this team. It is made up of great skiers and riders, teachers, and people.

Who is your greatest inspiration as an instructor?

I’ve been part of the PSIA-AASI National Team since 1996, and I’ve been inspired by every teammate I’ve had. They always find ways to motivate me to be my best and give as much as I possibly can to everyone I get the pleasure to ski with.

Best part of teaching?

Witnessing the spark when something clicks – there is no better thing.

What’s your favorite run at your home mountain?

Portillo Chile: the Roca Jack.

Heavenly: Fire Break.