Our Staff
Our staff have deep experience in their fields, long histories in the snowsports industry, and personal passions for sharing the joys of skiing and riding. We are multi-discipline and live across the country, bringing broad perspectives to the organization. We love what we do and hope you’ll say hello if you see us on snow!
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National Staff
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Andy stein
Digital Marketing Manager
Describe your role:
You may have seen me on a few social series about the history of PSIA-AASI. I’ve got a passion for communicating with people and sharing the knowledge behind snowsports instruction. I help maintain our digital presence and handle all email communications. My work connects members to the educational materials PSIA-AASI offers and shows the joy and excitement that a career or hobby in snowsport instruction offers!Education & Certificates:
I’m a degreed meteorologist. I got my B.S. degree from UNC-Charlotte. I’ve worked as a meteorologist on TV and a communicator for non-profits for almost a decade. Real-life experience comes from working at Colorado Ski Country USA, a non-profit in Colorado promoting many of the states ski and ride areas and skiing since I was 5, snowboarding since I was 21 (only did this for a few years…injury…) and telemark skiing as of the 2024 National Academy where I attempted some hard terrain and was rudely humbled the next day when my legs would shake after every step. I’m planning on going for my Level 1 in Alpine in the near future.What would you say to someone interested in learning to ski or snowboard?
If you want to experience something fun and adrenaline-filled while being outside, skiing or snowboarding is a great way to explore nature.What’s your favorite snowsports memory?
I was skiing the backbowls of Vail, Colorado one year during a big snowstorm. I love riding through the trees and popping out on a nice, wide-open run. I was doing just that during this snowstorm and because it was snowing so heavily, I couldn’t see that where I popped out of the trees was a 15-foot cliff. Well, I flew off that cliff unknowingly about to get the most air in my life and thankfully landed in a pile of deep powder cushioning the blow of my less-than-perfect landing. It was the perfect mixture of adrenaline and fear. -
angelo ross
Education Development Manager
Describe your role:
I manage the day-to-day and long-term development of our educational content, curriculum, and resources.Education & Certifications:
B.S. in biology, M.S. in education from Saint Vincent College, Latrobe, PA. PSIA-AASI certified Alpine Level 3, Snowboard Level 1, Cross Country Level 1, Telemark Level 1, CS2, FS1, Eastern Alpine Examiner and Children’s Examiner; National Ski Patrol member, toboggan instructor.What would you say to someone interested in learning to ski or snowboard?
Learn from experienced pros and take it anywhere you want, from mellow weekend fun to a rewarding, challenging career.What’s your favorite snowsports memory?
Too many to recall but trips with my wife, working with our membership, and going to events like Eastern Pro Jam/Master’s Academy, National Academy, Tele Hoedowns, and Interski all stand out. -
Chip powers
Accounting Manager
Describe your role:
I provide accounting support to the education, marketing, member services, and merchandising departments. I also work with the nine PSIA-AASI divisions to provide shared accounting reporting and assistance.Education & Certificates:
Bachelor of Science, Business Administration, Colorado State UniversityWhat would you say to someone interested in learning to ski or snowboard?
It’s the most fun you can have outdoors during the winter.What’s your favorite snowsports memory?
Being with friends and watching my son launch off the cornices into untracked powder. -
christian green
Executive Editor
Describe your role:
I am the executive editor of 32 Degrees Magazine; create, manage, and edit website content; and assist with producing educational manuals, handbooks, and newsletters.What’s your favorite snowsports memory?
Skiing with my dad in the Poconos for the first time and taking him out as we got off the chairlift. -
CJ Lambrecht
E-Commerce and Partnerships Supervisor
Education:
Montana State University (Bachelor’s degree in business management, with a minor in international business)What would you say to someone interested in learning to ski or snowboard?
Might as well; you should try everything at least once.Favorite snowsports memory:
It’s tough to pick a specific memory, but I would say in general my favorite snowsports memories come from all the days skiing Bridger with my college roommates before (or instead of) class. From the short lift lines to the long powder lines, there are no bad memories of that place. -
Claire Jolly
Accountant
Describe your role:
I process sales and purchase orders and assist with month-end reconciliation.Education & Certifications:
Master of Accountancy, University of Tulsa. Bachelor of Science, Business Administration, University of Tulsa.What would you say to someone interested in learning to ski or snowboard?
Go for it! It’s never too late to start, and you’ll never know how much fun you’ll have until you try. -
Dave Schuiling
Director of Education and Professional Development
Describe your role:
Director of Education and Professional DevelopmentEducation & Certificates:
Alpine III, Snowboard III, Telemark III, Children’s Specialist 2, Freestyle Specialist 2
What would you say to someone interested in learning to ski or snowboard?
Your future begins uphill, but the downhill spiral is worth the journey every time.What’s your favorite snowsports memory?
She said “yes” in the East Drain, Telluride, CO -
Erika martinez
Member Services Representative
Describe your role:
I help members with any questions they have.Education & Certifications:
Bachelor of Science in Business ManagementWhat would you say to someone interested in learning to ski or snowboard?
It’s always great to try something new!What’s your favorite snowsports memory?
The 2021-22 season will be my first time on the slopes! -
Jeff Lifgren
Chief Executive Officer
Jeff was recently named the Chief Executive Officer of PSIA-AASI. Be on the lookout for more information about jeff. In the meantime, check out this announcement of Jeff as our new CEO and learn a bit more about him there.
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Jesse Morse
Information Technology Analyst
Describe your role:
I handle a variety of IT-related tasks for the organization, including web design, software engineering, database management, report-building, and troubleshooting problems. I also provide support for the Member Services team and the various divisions if they have any IT problems.Education & Certifications:
Alpine Level III, Children’s Specialist 2, Bachelor of Arts in MathematicsFavorite snowsports memory:
Waking up to 22″ of new snow in Telluride on a night where 2-4″ was forecasted, and literally choking on powder while making my first run. -
Katherine Fuller
Director of Marketing & Communications
Describe your role:
I oversee national marketing, branding, and public relations efforts. I strive for authenticity in that work and want our members, partners, and future pros to feel understood, represented, and welcome. I also do a lot of talking about how much fun this is.Education & Certifications:
Undergraduate degrees in journalism and political science, plus a master’s in marketing and public relations with a concentration in nonprofit management. Real-world education: seven years at the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) and five seasons at Arapahoe Basin Ski Area.What would you say to someone interested in learning to ski or snowboard?
Give yourself a chance and try it at least twice.What’s your favorite snowsports memory?
I switched from snowboarding to skiing in my early 30s. My first taste of powder on skis came after skinning up a resort with a few friends. Our reward for the effort was floating through a few inches of fresh snow on ungroomed runs. It was extra special to have earned those turns in good company and, despite my awful form and struggling to turn, I remember laughing with joy the whole way down. -
Laura duff
Event and Meeting Manager
Describe your role:
I work closely with our education department, task forces, and subject matter experts to drive consistent education, professional development, and credentialing for PSIA-AASI. My focus is on the coordination and development of education projects, resources, e-learning, manuals, and training with an emphasis on webinar creation, management, and deployment.Education & Certifications:
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Loyola Marymount UniversityWhat would you say to someone interested in learning to ski or snowboard?
Just do it! Don’t take yourself too seriously, smile, breathe in the fresh mountain air and enjoy learning something new. If all else fails, there’s always après-ski!What’s your favorite snowsports memory?
Any day on the mountain with my dad was a great day; quality father-daughter time. -
Laurel Walker
Communications Specialist
Describe your position:
I work with our written communication channels. Whether I’m editing and reviewing 32 Degrees, writing educational pieces on our website, or ensuring member emails provide members with what they need, I love contributing to our organization through the written word.Education and Certifications:
B.A. Earth Science, M.S. Geology, Wilderness First Responder (WFR), CPR certifiedWhat would you say to someone interested in learning to ski and snowboard:
Don’t be intimidated by your friends or family that already know how. Take a lesson, embrace being a beginner, and dive right in!What’s your favorite snowsports memory:
Growing up, my mom and I would go out on midnight cross country ski tours on my birthday. My favorite ones were when there was a full moon, and we could break fresh tracks. There’s something about softly gliding through fresh snow in the quiet of the night that is hard to beat. Plus, having these memories with my mom is something I will cherish forever. -
Lizette Hayes
Member Services Representative
Describe your role:
I assist members and help answer their questions.Education & Certifications:
Bachelor of the Arts in Psychology and Bachelor of Science in nursing.What’s your favorite snowsports memory?
My husband teaching me how to snowboard when we were first dating. I fell many times, but I had fun trying something completely new.What would you say to someone interested in learning to ski or snowboard?
Go for it! It’s never too late to start, and you’ll never know how much fun you’ll have until you try. -
Max felix
Merchandise Manager and Sponsorship Specialist
Describe your role:
I’m responsible for planning the merchandise selection for the PSIA-AASI Accessories Catalog, managing the PSIA-AASI product warehouse in Lakewood, CO, and I’m the primary contact for official suppliers and sponsors that have product represented in the catalog.What would you say to someone interested in learning to ski or snowboard?
It is a life-shaping sport that can provide a lifetime of adventure and fun for you, your family, and friends. -
micheala clark
Director of Operations
Describe your role:
I oversee member services operations for the Lakewood office. My role is to establish strong relationships with all our regions to ensure the same member experience across the United States.What would you say to someone interested in learning to ski or snowboard?
Take a lesson! I learned to ski by taking lessons. The endless encouragement and support from my instructors made learning something new so enjoyable! -
Ryan bramhall
Member Services Representative
Describe your role:
I help answer member questions.Education & Certifications:
Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Psychology with a double concentration in English from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.What would you say to someone interested in learning to ski or snowboard?
You should try it! You get to learn a new skill, spend time outside in gorgeous nature, and, to be honest, it’s just ton of fun.What’s your favorite snowsports memory?
Anytime I’m out with friends and hitting the slopes, it’s always a good time. -
Tom Spiess
Chief Financial Officer
What would you say to someone interested in learning to ski or snowboard?
You’ve really got to try this. You’ll never regret it.What’s your favorite snowsports memory?
The first run I took with my daughters after they got out of ski school — they were dying to show me all the stuff they had learned.
National Board of Directors
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Eliza Kuntz
Chair of the Board
What inspired you to become an instructor?
I grew up skiing a very small area and by high school was becoming bored on the short runs. I figured teaching looked fun and would provide structure to my days at the hill.What’s the best piece of advice you could offer a new instructor?
Learn from others and don’t be afraid to try something different.What’s your favorite member benefit?
The friends I have made within the organization!Areas you have taught at:
Camden Snow Bowl, ME; Greek Peak, NY; Red Lodge Mountain, MT -
Eric Jordan
Secretary and Eastern Board Director
What inspired you to become an instructor?
I was in a seasonal program at my local mountain when I saw how much fun my coaches had working with our team. It inspired me to share my love of the sport with others, just like they did for me.
What’s the best piece of advice you could offer a new instructor?
Find some great mentors at your area, and soak up all their knowledge and passion.
What’s your favorite member benefit?
Pro Deals from PSIA-AASI Official Suppliers and educational materials.
Areas you have taught at:
Elk Mountain, PA and heading to Sugarbush, VT for the 2021-22 season. -
John May
Northwest Board Director
What inspired you to become an instructor?
To improve my skiing.What’s the best piece of advice you could offer a new instructor?
Remind your trainers that inspiration beats technical perfection.What’s your favorite member benefit?
Pro Offers and training opportunities at clinics.Areas you have taught at:
Mt. Hood Meadows, OR; Mt. Hood Timberline, OR; Vail, CO; Beaver Creek, CO; Crystal Mountain, WA -
Neil Bussiere
Vice Chair and Western Board Director
What inspired you to become an instructor?
The desire to improve as a skier and to meet people.
What’s the best piece of advice you could offer a new instructor?
Keep striving to improve your teaching and always maintain a positive outlook.
What’s your favorite member benefit?
Clinics and social functions
Areas you have taught at:
Mt. High Resort, CA -
Rich McLaughlin
Intermountain Board Director
What inspired you to become an instructor?
Seeing the joy in peoples faces as they learn a new sport.What’s the best piece of advice you could offer a new instructor?
If you have a challenging day, just remember you’re doing what you love.What’s your favorite member benefit?
All of them. Member events, continuing education opportunities, and Pro Deals.Areas you have taught at:
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, WY -
robin may
Rocky Mountain Board Director
What inspired you to become an instructor?
My father was a professional ski instructor, race club president, and industry guy in Canada. I became a certified member of CSIA (Canadian Ski Instructor Association) in 1974 as a high school student. I was riding the chair with my dad at Mt. Seymour in North Vancouver when I saw Wayne Wong toss a really floaty helicopter on the loop jump — I thought he was the coolest guy I’d ever seen. My dad told me he was a CSIA 4 and a member of the Canadian Demo Team. I signed up for my exam the next day.What’s the best piece of advice you could offer a new instructor?
Teaching is at the core of what we do as human beings. It is a primal requirement to pass on our knowledge, skill, and talent. The first experience with your first teacher is life-changing.Areas you have taught at:
I have taught or coached at Mt. Seymour, BC; Whistler Blackcomb, BC; Manning Park, BC; Panorama, BC; El Colorado, Chile; Portillo, Chile; Red River, NM; and Taos, NM. I have been the ski school director at Mt. High, CO; Eldora, CO; and Angel Fire, NM full-time since 1978. -
shelby rogala
Northern Rocky Mountain Board Director
What inspired you to become an instructor?
I was lucky enough to participate in the All Mountain program at my local mountain. The passion, excitement, and sense of community around sliding on snow was contagious, so I joined the team when I reached High School.What’s the best piece of advice you could offer a new instructor?
Find your voice as a teacher – be willing to challenge yourself to improve as much as you challenge your students.What’s your favorite member benefit?
Access to training, learning, growing, and connecting with all of YOU!Areas you have taught at:
Bridger Bowl, Great Divide, Lost Trail Ski Area, and Yellowstone Club, MT; Aspen Highlands, CO; Ski Portillo, Chile -
Steve Faller
Treasurer and Central Board Director
What inspired you to become an instructor?
A friend told me that Sunburst, a local Milwaukee hill, was looking for instructors and since I loved skiing so much, I should consider teaching. What a great idea. Until then, I had never realized how rewarding it would be to meet new people and share the joy of skiing with them.
What’s the best piece of advice you could offer a new instructor?
Be bold and ask for guidance. There are so many unbelievable trainers, team members, examiners, and leaders that sometimes it can be intimidating to ask them questions or for help. Be reassured they want to help you as much as you want to learn.
What’s your favorite member benefit?
When I became an instructor, I hoped to meet people to ski and ride with. Having met so many new friends through PSIA to slide with has been the most amazing benefit of all. The Pro discounts aren’t too shabby either.
Areas you have taught at:
I’ve taught at Sunburst and currently teach at Little Switzerland, both near Milwaukee. -
Walt coiner
Northern Intermountain Board Director
What inspired you to become an instructor?
After college, I free skied for 10 winters. Then one day, I felt the need to give and grow in the skiing community. Teaching skiing and riding seemed to be exactly what I needed. So I signed up.What’s the best piece of advice you could offer a new instructor?
Follow “The Five Agreements.” Always do your best. Never make assumptions. Don’t take anything personally. Be impeccable with your word. Be skeptical, but learn to listen.What’s your favorite member benefit?
Representing all you members on the national board.Areas you have taught at:
Sun Valley, 39 years.