Ashley Thomas
APSI President
Are you currently a snowsports instructor, or have you been one in the past? If yes, how long have you been instructing, over what time period and where?
I am currently a ski instructor employed at Thredbo. I was first hired there in 2008 and did many years going back-to-back between Thredbo and Niseko in Japan. I came up through the APSI system passing my level 4 in 2016. As of 2017 my focus heavy shifted towards training at what I could offer my peers. This was to start with mostly in the ski schools and as an APSI trainer.
What is your favourite part about being involved in the snowsports industry?
It must be the people, the support and the ski community. We all work together, ride up the mountain together, live together and hang out socially together. There are not may industries in the world where people are connected in every aspect of their daily lives and it works. Everyone is so supportive of each other, encouraging, challenging and spreading good vibes.
How long have you been involved with the APSI and what inspired you to join the Board?
I have been a member of the APSI since 2008 when I did my level 1 course back in Thredbo. Should out to Paul Lorenz and Jeremy Geyle for passing me on that level 1 exam! (It was called a children’s certificate back then!) From here I worked my way through the APSI certifications and worked very hard to achieve my APSI Alpine level 4 in Thredbo 2016. Once I’d passed, I was encouraged and inspired to take on a training role in Japan which helped lead me to apply as a rookie in the AUS 2017 season. From there I’ve work my way up to a level 4 trainer and am now a member of the technical committee helping shape the future of what we teach and how we examine skiing within the APSI.
What is your professional background outside of snowsports?
Outside of snowsports, my professional background is in operations management and technical infrastructure. I work as an Operations Manager responsible for the deployment of audiovisual, network, and surveillance systems across all our state offices, while managing compliance and security frameworks. In this role I focus on improving internal processes to increase efficiency, and I oversee, write, and update company policies to ensure they comply with state and federal requirements. I also hold a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, which supports my work in developing and delivering training across the organisation.
What is one thing you think members might not know about what the Board or APSI does?
This is a very good question, and I would love to discover this some more as I get into my new role. I will update this section next year!
What is one thing you hope to contribute or achieve during your time on the Board?
I hope to keep improving the APSI for all its members. I want the members to be heard and to act on things that are important to the people. I want everyone to feel included and for the APSI to run more efficiently. I am very driven and passionate about the APSI, and I hope that my energy will lead to a positive change. I want to help the APSI create futures for our members and our staff so that they can afford to make a career within the ski industry.
Is there anything else you would like to add or share with the APSI membership?
I’m here for the members, and for my work colleagues. I want everyone to be proud of the organisation they are a part of and will do my best to ensure we are all get to that point. I am always open to have a chat either on or off the mountain so please always feel free to reach out to me if you have questions concerns or just want to chat!
