SkiBig3 Snow School Team
The SkiBig3 Snow School team are top-level CSIA and CASI certified instructors. Some of our team members have been teaching with SkiBig3 for over 20 years! Learn their stories and what they love most about Banff and Lake Louise.
Aimee Dalton | SKI
As a former primary teacher turned Level 2 ski instructor, I’ve brought my love of teaching from the classroom to the mountains—and I couldn’t be happier about it! Teaching has always been at the heart of who I am and I love helping others learn, grow, and discover what they’re capable of. Banff is my home away from home and I’m excited to help you explore everything that this incredible place has to offer!
With each session structured around your goals - whether you want to conquer a new slope or improve your technique, I hope to inspire and support you every step of the way. Each session is all about creating a relaxed, confidence-boosting atmosphere where both children and adults can laugh and learn, and everyone leaves proud of what they’ve achieved.
There’s something special about watching someone discover their ability—one turn, one lesson, one moment at a time. If you’re looking for an instructor who celebrates your progress and makes skiing feel exciting, I’d love to be part of your journey!
Level 2 CSIA
ANNA STECKLE | SKI
Private Instructor Guide | Nonstop
I was hired to teach Nonstop for SkiBig3 in 2007, and two years later, I became the lead instructor. In this role, I’ve had the chance to contribute to the development and growth of the program. A big part of my job is making sure the Canadian Nonstop program in Banff is aligned with the Fernie program, creating a cohesive experience across both locations.
I’m passionate about mentoring and supporting our students, and I’m lucky to help them reach their goals, whether it's achieving their Level 1 or 2 Ski Instructor certification or guiding them through their gap year experience. One of my favourite aspects of the job is also teaching private lessons, where I can tailor the experience to each individual's needs and watch them progress.
My local tip is to take a moment to look up and appreciate the incredible views during the drive up to the mountains, it's a reminder of just how special this place is.
CSIA Level 4 Instructor
ARABELLA BARRIO | SKI
I was born and raised in New Zealand to British parents and have been skiing in the Southern Alps around Wānaka every year since the age of three. During the 2023–24 winter season, I earned my CSIA Level 1 and Level 2 Ski Instructor certifications in Banff. I then spent the Southern Hemisphere winter instructing at Rainbow Ski Area in New Zealand before returning to Banff to join the SkiBig3 Snow School team.
Most recently, I achieved my CSIA Level 3 Ski Instructor certification during the past Southern Hemisphere winter. I’m excited to be back in Banff to continue my instructing career and share my passion for skiing with guests of all ages and backgrounds. Helping people build confidence on the mountain and enjoy this incredible environment is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.
I look forward to helping you make the most of your holiday by improving your skiing skills and feeling comfortable in the elements while experiencing this truly beautiful part of the world.
BRENT SAWATZKY | SKI
Private Instructor Guide
I have been skiing since I was 8 years old and an instructor since I was 16. I am a CSIA Level 2 Instructor and I live in Cochrane, between Calgary and Banff. My goal for instructing is to make people as passionate about the sport of skiing as I am. I love to introduce new people to the sport and then watch them gliding confidently around one of our beautiful resorts within a few hours. I also love taking experienced skiers to my favourite powder stashes, bumps, or glades. Just imagine being transported to the top of a mountain and overlooking hundreds of snow-covered peaks, valleys and ice-covered lakes! My local tip is to remember that each mountain is special in a different way. Try to find a mountain that speaks to you, like how the mountains speak to me.
CSIA Level 2 Instructor
BRYAN PARKER | SKI
Private Instructor Guide | Nonstop
I am a CSIA Level 3 Instructor. I started teaching skiing many years ago and then I took a career path in aviation. I have retired from flying airplanes around the globe and now returned to the ski world. I have lived in Banff and Canmore for the last 40+ years. It’s a stunning area to live in and I enjoy the multiple recreational activities available. My local tip is to get out there and enjoy them all.
In addition to my work as an instructor, I also teach for the Nonstop program, which has been an incredibly rewarding experience. I love helping students achieve their Level 1 and 2 Ski Instructor certifications.
CSIA Level 3 Instructor
CARLO RIVEROLL | SKI & SNOWBOARD
Private Instructor Guide | Nonstop
I’ve been with SkiBig3 since 2002, starting with Club Snowboard. I took a break for three seasons to gain experience elsewhere, but I’ve been back since 2006, making it 18 consecutive seasons with the SkiBig3 Snow School team. I speak both English and Spanish fluently.
My journey with snowboarding has completely changed my life. I fell in love with teaching and sharing my passion for snowboarding with others, and I’ve been lucky to be part of this amazing team.
I’m one of the few multi-certified instructors here, holding a Level 4 Snowboard certification and a Level 2 Ski certification. I love connecting with my guests, and I believe that my passion for the sport and teaching is truly infectious.
What I love most about Banff and Lake Louise is how “nature rules.” You can always count on the landscape to surprise you. My tip? Always be prepared for rapidly changing conditions—both external and internal. It’s the nature of the mountains!
CASI Level 4 Instructor, CSIA Level 2 Instructor, CASI Level 2 Course Conductor
As featured in:
Rowley Adventures - Influencer Collab - SkiBig3 Guided Adventure at Norquay
UrbanClimbr - Influencer Collab - POV: Getting an Intermediate Stance
Rowley Adventures - Influencer Collab - Learning how to heelside Carve with Carlo
Rowley Adventures - Influencer Collab - First time riding the trees with Carlo
Corey Green | SKI & SNOWBOARD
Private & Park Instructor
Originally from Yorkshire, England, my passion for snow sports started early thanks to my father, a fellow ski and snowboard instructor. I grew up exploring slopes across Europe, racing with the Lions Ski Club, and even passed my first instructor exam at 16 so I could share the thrill of skiing at my local hill. Along the way, I developed freestyle skills that I love bringing into my lessons.
Now, I’m proud to call the Bow Valley home—the terrain here is unbeatable! Whether you’re just starting your snow sports journey or looking to take your skills to the next level—on-piste, off-piste, or in the park—I’m here to help you progress with confidence and have fun doing it.
Certifications:
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CASI Level 2, Snow Park Certified
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CSIA Level 2, Snow Park Certified
CHARLIE VALENTINE | SKI
Private Instructor Guide | Nonstop
I’ve been passionate about skiing for years and have 17+ years of teaching experience under my belt. I’ve skied all around the world, from Europe to New Zealand, Argentina, and Chile. If you're looking for a bilingual instructor, I speak both English and Spanish.
One of my insider tips is to always take the shuttles to the resorts, they’re great for parking, and they make a perfect “snooze option” after a hard day of skiing. The shuttles drop you right at the resort’s doorstep, making it super convenient!
CSIA Level 3 Instructor, ACA-CSC Level 2 Coach
DARREN MAY | SKI
I’m originally from the UK—but don’t worry, the accent mellows out after a few chairlift rides. I first clipped into skis on a high school trip to Austria at 16, instantly fell in love with the sport, and never looked back.
I got my instructor certification in Fernie, “sharpened my edges” teaching at a snow dome in the UK (think skiing inside a fridge), then headed back to Austria to teach in Zell am See and Mayrhofen.
I earned my instructor certification in Fernie, sharpened my edges teaching at a snow dome in the UK (imagine skiing inside a fridge!), then headed back to Austria to teach in Zell am See and Mayrhofen. Eventually, I set my sights on Banff and stayed for a solid decade—earning more certifications, training future pros, and cheering so loudly for my students that I’ve been compared to a one-man hype squad. If you hear someone yelling “YESS!! THAT’S IT!!” halfway across the mountain… it’s probably me.
Fun fact: Lindsey Vonn once told me I had a great moustache. I’m still not sure if she meant it, but I’m absolutely taking it as a win.
Local Tip: Slow down, breathe, and soak in the mountains. They’ll fix almost anything—except bad boot fittings.
When I’m not on skis, I’m a drummer and a dad, trying my best to keep the house at least somewhat organized and the beats sounding rad.
CSIA Level 3 – Snow Park certified
DAVID MACLELLAN | SKI
Private Instructor Guide
I am a CSIA Level 2 Instructor. I have taught skiing at a number of ski areas in Ontario and Alberta. I currently spend my winters in Canmore and summers in Cape Breton (Sea to Sky)
I love skiing in the Canadian Rockies. When I lived in Ontario I would make an annual ski trip out west. It was always a nice change from the more common eastern Powder conditions (hard packed or icy). The Banff Ski areas offer fantastic – terrain , snow and scenery.
My tip – dress in layers. You can take clothing off if you are too warm if you are cold you may need to go inside.
CSIA Level 2 Instructor
Eva Nemethova | SKI
Private Instructor Guide
I’m Eva Nemethova, a passionate ski instructor and race coach from Slovakia. I’ve been skiing since childhood, and the mountains have always been my second home.
Over the years, skiing turned from a hobby into a lifestyle — and today I’m lucky enough to share that passion with my clients on the slopes. I’ve spent countless seasons training, exploring new resorts, and always pushing myself to improve — both as a skier and a coach. And honestly — even an “average” day on the mountain beats the best day at a desk.
IG: @nemethova.eva
CSIA Level 2
JACK DEROO | SKI
Private Instructor Guide | Nonstop
I’m a CSIA Level 3 Instructor as well as an ACA Entry Level (L1) Trained Race Coach. I also hold my CSIA L1 Course Conductor status and certify new ski instructors, primarily at prairie hills in Edmonton and Northern Alberta. I started skiing on a grade 4 school trip to the Edmonton Ski Club back in the ‘80s and that led to a lifelong habit of skiing every winter. When life tossed me a curve ball ahead of the birth of my first child, I took what I thought would be a short-term job teaching school children in Edmonton to ski. This led to getting my Level 1 and 2 CSIA certifications that season, followed by a decade of full-time ski instruction for local school children. More recently, I’ve shifted to splitting my time between Edmonton and the mountains as I work towards my CSIA Level 4 Certification. This season marks my 15th consecutive season teaching skiing and I still look forward to being able to share my passion for skiing with students of all ages and ability levels.
My tip for visitors is to park their car and walk up and down Banff Avenue. You’ll find many very Canadian offerings in the shops if you’re looking for a souvenir from your trip. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from that will meet almost any culinary desire you may have. I would recommend trying one of the local steak houses, as Alberta is known for its beef and bison. Also, no trip to Banff is complete without a stop at Cows for ice cream, even if it’s -20C (-4F) outside!
CSIA Level 3 Instructor, ACA Entry Level 1 Trained Race Coach, CSIA Level 1 Course Conductor
JAMIE ROBINSON | SKI
Private Instructor Guide | Nonstop
I’m a CSIA Level 3 Ski Instructor and Level 1 Course Conductor, and I feel incredibly lucky to live and work in the Bow Valley. I’ve been here for over 10 years, and every day I’m reminded of just how special this place is. What I love the most about Banff and Lake Louise is that I have over 8,000km squared of skiable terrain between the three-ski resorts. If I could give one tip it would be to bring snacks and drink lots of water! When you are in a playground as large as Banff and Lake Louise, little adventures can easily get bigger. So don’t forget the tasty treats and something to wash them down with!
CSIA Level 3 Instructor, CSIA Level 1 Course Conductor
JUAN ANGEL | SNOWBOARD
Private Instructor Guide
KELSEY GAHNSMITH | SNOWBOARD
Private Instructor Guide | Nonstop
I am originally from Niagara Falls, Ontario. I grew up skiing across the border in New York from a very young age. In 2002, I took my first-ever snowboarding lesson at Blue Mountain and was instantly hooked. This passion drove me West after finishing University in 2014, and I have been privileged to progress and help others to develop their skills within the sport ever since.
Over the last couple of years, I’ve had the pleasure of being involved with the Nonstop program, which has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Teaching is my true passion, and there’s nothing more fulfilling than watching someone grow and reach their goals on the slopes.
CASI Level 3 Instructor, CASI Park Level 1 Instructor
As featured in:
Kelsey's #1 Tip for Progression
Amayazm - Influencer Collab - Our first time visiting Lake Louise Ski Resort
What's your favourite skill to teach?
What is a guided adventure?
Powder day shredding at SSV
MARC TANGUAY | SNOWBOARD
Private Instructor Guide | Nonstop
Originally from Montreal, QC, I speak both French and English. This is my 28th season teaching and coaching snowboarding in Banff and Lake Louise. I love chasing deep snow at Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort and Mt. Norquay and making sure SkiBig3 guests experience fresh tracks regardless of their ability levels! When I’m not at the resorts, I’m typically in the backcountry snowmobiling.
Snowboarding is a lifestyle that I love sharing with people. From the equipment, the apparel and of course the on-snow technique, turning guests “on” to snowboarding and into lifelong snowboarders is a real passion. This area offers such great snow, awesome snow parks, amazing views, no crowds and an overall casual laid back vibe that keeps people coming back year after year. Looking forward to riding with you and assisting with all your snowboarding needs and sharing all that this area has to offer!
CASI Level 4 Instructor, CASI Evaluator
MATT ARNSTEIN | SNOWBOARD
Private Instructor Guide | Nonstop
Originally from the UK and learning to snowboard in one of the few indoor centers, I came to Banff for a six month winter season in 2009... and never left! The vibrance of living in a beautiful mountain town with a long winter season and equally fun summer is what keeps me here. Banff has had an excellent variety of terrain and there is something for all kinds of skiers and riders, but nothing better than a cold smoke powder day!
CASI Level 3 Instructor
MIKE DESBRISAY | SKI
Private Instructor Guide | Nonstop
My love of Banff and the Canadian Rockies began many years ago when I was here for the Canadian Ski Championships from Eastern Canada. I then moved to the mountains to pursue my passion in the ski world, after retiring as a competitor. I have many years of high-level ski racing, coaching and teaching experience which gives me a wealth of knowledge to help clients begin skiing and/or improve their skills at all levels. I take great pleasure in teaching clients in a simple, non-technical way that is fun and enjoyable.
What I love most about Banff and Lake Louise is its protection by Banff National Park and that it has visitors from all over the world, giving it a cosmopolitan feel (along with being a fabulous year-round playground).
I’ve been working with SkiBig3 for over 20 years and I’ve had my CSIA Level 4 for over 50 years! Over the years, I’ve been heavily involved with the Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance (CSIA) and I was chair of the CSIA Alberta Committee from 1974 – 1976. I was also on the national board of directors from 1991-1999, while also being the president of the CSIA from 1995-1999.
I am honoured to have been inducted into the CSIA Hall of Fame in 2006.
CSIA Level 4, CSCF Level 3
PETER ROTHERY | SNOWBOARD
Private Instructor Guide | Nonstop
I’m a CASI Level 3 Instructor, CASI Park Level 2 Instructor, and a CASI Level 2 and Level 1 Park Course Conductor. I have lived and worked in many different areas but there is something very powerful about these mountains. I look forward to the seasonal changes, the big snowfalls, the sunny park days and the glimpses of wildlife while snowboarding. In our modern world, there are few places left where you can just enjoy the sounds of nature. What’s my local tip? Don’t forget to stop and appreciate your surroundings, breathe deeply and feel the energy of this place. After a hard day on the slopes, go for a soak and relax at the Banff Upper Hot Springs. Your body will thank you immensely.
CASI Level 3 Instructor, CASI Park Level 2 Instructor, CASI Level 2 and Level 1 Park Course Conductor
As featured in:
Whats your favourite skill to teach?
What is a guided adventure?
Powder day shredding at SSV
RYAN ORMAN | SKI
Private Instructor Guide | Nonstop
As a child growing up in the UK, I was always fascinated by mountains, but it was difficult to experience them firsthand. However, when I was seven years old, my family went on a skiing vacation to France, and it completely blew my mind. From that moment on, I knew that I wanted to live and work in the mountains.
At 19, I began my journey as a ski instructor and obtained my level 1 and 2 certifications in Banff. For the next five seasons, I taught and worked in Austria, specifically in Kitzbühel. Now, I have returned to Banff, which feels like a home away from home for me.
My local tip: Look and take in the amazing surroundings that this national park has to offer because you won’t see beauty like it anywhere else in the world. Banff is truly a special place.
CSIA Level 3 Instructor
Riley Reeves | SKI
Private Instructor Guide
I was born in Australia and first clicked into skis at age four, learning the ropes at Falls Creek and Mt Hotham. After moving to Canada at twelve, I traded Aussie snow for the legendary powder of Banff Sunshine and Lake Louise—and I’ve never looked back.
After completing my instructor training with Nonstop, and having a season of teaching under my belt, I’m thrilled to be part of the SkiBig3 team. I’m passionate about everything the mountains have to offer—whether it’s carving fresh powder, exploring new terrain, or sharing my love for skiing with others. Helping people build confidence and experience this stunning part of the world is truly the best job I could imagine.
CSIA Level 2
Simon Kowalchuk | SKI
Private & Nonstop Instructor
Born and raised in Calgary, I grew up exploring and adventuring in these mountains. As a young adult, I lived in the area for several years before life led me down different paths—moving across Canada and around the world. But no matter where I went, I always returned to the mountains I love. For over half a decade now, Banff has been my home.
Today, I have the privilege of sharing this special place with people from all over the world and helping them experience the sports I adore. There’s nothing better than introducing someone to something new—whether it’s discovering a breathtaking spot or taking their skiing to the next level. No matter how long I’m here, it never gets old.
Ready to explore the mountains and elevate your skiing? Let’s make it happen!
CSIA Level 3
SAM NEILL | SKI
Private Instructor Guide
I’m Sam Neill (no, not the actor) I’m a CSIA Level 2 Ski Instructor from the UK! I’ve been skiing for over 16 years all over Europe and Canada! When I first started skiing it immediately became my passion and soon it became my dream to become a ski instructor! I came to Banff to achieve my level 1 and 2 and in the process I completely fell in love with Banff and I knew I wanted to return to live and work in Banff.
CSIA Level 2 Instructor
Verity Argent | SKI
Private Instructor guide
I first learned to ski at age 12 on a trip to Tignes with my dad—where we ended up in the same group. Nothing builds confidence quite like being the only kid surrounded by adults trying not to fall over! From then on, skiing became “our thing,” and we spent the next few years exploring resorts across Europe, from Passo Tonale to Claviere, Folgaria, and Tarvisio. Somewhere between the hot chocolates and questionable rentals, I fell in love with the sport.
My passion for teaching grew from watching people experience their own “aha!” moments. Before skiing, I worked as a multidiscipline senior water sports instructor for three years, which sparked my desire to become a year-round seasonaire. I completed my CSIA Levels 1 and 2 with NONSTOP, where I trained alongside some legendary instructors who fueled my love for coaching and learning new skills.
This is my first season with SkiBig3, and I’m excited to make the most of it—meeting new faces, sharing the slopes, and helping others discover the joy of skiing. See you out there!
CSIA Level 2
