Annie McConnell

Background

About Annie McConnell

Professional Wildperson with a passion for teaching people how to excel at experiencing the outdoors.~ I have spent the last five years working in the outdoor and snow sports industry in various roles, including ski instructor, zipline guide, team leader/supervisor, and volunteer coordinator. I have a great passion for helping others develop their skills, discovering their own ambitions and abilities, and welcoming newcomers to the outdoor playgrounds I call my office. Over the last two seasons, I have worked in the management team at Grouse Mountain, utilizing these passions to promote the growth of our snow school and volunteer departments. I have had a hand in setting up programs for our staff and mountain to help promote wellness, sustainability, and career growth. These include training new staff and implementing new strategies and structures for our volunteer program, and Mental Health Month where we run mindfulness sessions and physical training such as yoga and mobility focus to prevent burnout after peak weeks. The volunteer program has now become a stepping stone for new and aspiring ski and snowboard instructors to gain experience and work towards their CSIA Level 1.~ My achievements are showcased in the energy and joy staff bring to the workplace, as well as the volunteer-instructor pathway project. I continue to work with POW (Protect Our Winters) to promote the sustainability of the snow sports industry from the inside out by promoting events, recruiting, and awareness at my home mountain.~ On the side, I am an artist! Drawing inspiration from where I work and play, I paint and make linework prints to sell on Etsy with a portion of proceeds going towards my favourite causes, under the name SeawolfPrints.