Tereza Turecka | Avalanche Technician | 5th season at Marmot Basin
How did you get into your role?
Ever since my first year as a ski patroller, I have been fascinated by the work of the avalanche forecasting team at Marmot Basin. I worked really hard to gain as much experience as possible in the avalanche industry over the years and focused on taking courses, volunteering and working in various ski and visitor safety operations.
What skills and attributes do you need to do your job well?
The Avalanche Technician position is physically and mentally demanding. Our team are the first on the mountain and the last to leave, ensuring the safety of our guests and staff.
What does a typical day look like?
05:15 AM alarm clock. Ski boots on and hitting the slopes at 06:30 AM. During morning safety meeting, our team produces an avalanche hazard forecast and plans avalanche control for the day. Out the door at 07:45 AM.
“No day is ever the same, I may be wallowing through a blizzard with heavy explosives in my pack, digging a snow pit for snow stability observations, tidying fence lines, or helping with first aid calls across the mountain.”
If you could tell people one thing about your job, what could it be?
The biggest misconception about this job is that all we do is ski for fun. While our guests are enjoying fresh tracks early in the morning, we are out there hiking up the exposed ridge lines working hard to manage hazards to make conditions safe for those on the slopes below.
“Sometimes we need to take a deep breath, stay collected and focused while juggling the various challenges of the day.”
What's the best thing about your job?
Early morning avalanche control missions in the tranquility of the mountains. When I am about to throw the first shot in the slope while watching one of the spectacular sun rises over the jagged peaks of the Rockies.
Interested in Joining Ski Patrol? Here's some advice from Tereza
“Taking advanced first aid and avalanche courses prior to joining our team will definitely set you up for success. If you are a hard worker, good team player and have a positive attitude to whatever job is required of you, then you are a perfect candidate for the Avalanche Control Team.”
- Missed an interview? Read about Bridget from Ski Patrol, Kaleigh from Snow Farming
