Pro Team
The Atomic Pro Team is a group of top professionals from diverse backgrounds, spanning across the country, who embody the spirit of the Atomic brand. They represent our core values on the hill, showcasing their exceptional skiing skills and dedication. Off the slopes, they engage with their communities, promoting sportsmanship, teamwork, and a passion for the outdoors. Together, they inspire the next generation of athletes and foster a sense of camaraderie and commitment to excellence.
Andrew Longstreth
Crystal Mountain, WA, USA
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
Had no money and had to ski!
What drives your passion for skiing?
The incredible freedom the sport provides in an amazing environment!
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
Started skiing at Squaw Valley when I was 5. I ski raced for Alpental WA and moved to Mt. Baker (Bellingham) for college. Skiing took over. I began ski patrolling at Baker in 1983. Moved to Crystal in 1991 and have been patrolling there ever since!
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
Had no money and had to ski!
What drives your passion for skiing?
The incredible freedom the sport provides in an amazing environment!
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
Started skiing at Squaw Valley when I was 5. I ski raced for Alpental WA and moved to Mt. Baker (Bellingham) for college. Skiing took over. I began ski patrolling at Baker in 1983. Moved to Crystal in 1991 and have been patrolling there ever since!
Ben Blakely
Stowe, VT, USA
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I grew up skiing, I loved coaching and working around ski racing so I stuck with it!
What drives your passion for skiing?
Being outdoors and the feeling of freedom and g forces and speed.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I was born and raised in Vermont. My late father, Ed Blakely, taught me to ski. He would take me, my brother and my sister every weekend. He began ski patrolling in the 90s and would pack us in the car at 5am so he could be on the lift at 6am. I would sleep in the lodge until the lift opened and would ski all day, sometimes falling asleep on the lift by the end of the day.
I attended UVM and began coaching my high school ski team. A coaching job took me to Wyoming where i worked and skied for 6 years, I also worked as a groomer operator for 2 season, a amazing experience.
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I grew up skiing, I loved coaching and working around ski racing so I stuck with it!
What drives your passion for skiing?
Being outdoors and the feeling of freedom and g forces and speed.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I was born and raised in Vermont. My late father, Ed Blakely, taught me to ski. He would take me, my brother and my sister every weekend. He began ski patrolling in the 90s and would pack us in the car at 5am so he could be on the lift at 6am. I would sleep in the lodge until the lift opened and would ski all day, sometimes falling asleep on the lift by the end of the day.
I attended UVM and began coaching my high school ski team. A coaching job took me to Wyoming where i worked and skied for 6 years, I also worked as a groomer operator for 2 season, a amazing experience.
Bill Teague
Mountain High Resort, CA, USA
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
Recruited on a chair lift by a ski school director.
What drives your passion for skiing?
Teaching a new movement pattern to a student.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
Teaching, Supervising and Directing the Children's Program and Senior Program at Mountain High Resort for 36 years and enjoy the smiles we receive from our students each and every day.
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
Recruited on a chair lift by a ski school director.
What drives your passion for skiing?
Teaching a new movement pattern to a student.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
Teaching, Supervising and Directing the Children's Program and Senior Program at Mountain High Resort for 36 years and enjoy the smiles we receive from our students each and every day.
Brian Shipman
Catamount, MA, USA
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I began coaching ski racing to spend more time with my kids.
What drives your passion for skiing?
Spending time with family outdoors, doing something active and always trying to find perfect turn.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
Finance is my day job, but family and skiing is my passion. I've got three kids, and all of them have grown up ski racing every weekend.
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I began coaching ski racing to spend more time with my kids.
What drives your passion for skiing?
Spending time with family outdoors, doing something active and always trying to find perfect turn.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
Finance is my day job, but family and skiing is my passion. I've got three kids, and all of them have grown up ski racing every weekend.
Christina Bruno
Steamboat Springs, CO, USA
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I started working at Christy Sports at Snowbird in the rental department when I was 16. I would work after school until night skiing ended on Chickadee (back when they had night skiing). I've worked in nearly every snow sports department. Discovering my passion for instructing and adaptive snow sports, I pursued a career as an instructor, eventually becoming an examiner and PSIA-AASI National Team member.
What drives your passion for skiing?
I love being outside in the mountain environment and sharing that with others. Whether I am touring, instructing, or enjoying lift access skiing it is a privilege to get to slide on snow, move, challenge yourself, and be outside.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I grew up skiing in Salt Lake City and later volunteered in adaptive sports at Crested Butte, leading to an AmeriCorps role at the National Ability Center. My career in adaptive snow sports includes work with the Paralympics, becoming a PSIA-AASI examiner, and joining the National Team. I also run backcountry camps in Japan and direct DEI for the International Freeskiers and Snowboarders Association.
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I started working at Christy Sports at Snowbird in the rental department when I was 16. I would work after school until night skiing ended on Chickadee (back when they had night skiing). I've worked in nearly every snow sports department. Discovering my passion for instructing and adaptive snow sports, I pursued a career as an instructor, eventually becoming an examiner and PSIA-AASI National Team member.
What drives your passion for skiing?
I love being outside in the mountain environment and sharing that with others. Whether I am touring, instructing, or enjoying lift access skiing it is a privilege to get to slide on snow, move, challenge yourself, and be outside.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I grew up skiing in Salt Lake City and later volunteered in adaptive sports at Crested Butte, leading to an AmeriCorps role at the National Ability Center. My career in adaptive snow sports includes work with the Paralympics, becoming a PSIA-AASI examiner, and joining the National Team. I also run backcountry camps in Japan and direct DEI for the International Freeskiers and Snowboarders Association.
Christopher Wilde
Crystal Mountain, MI, USA
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I started skiing at a local hill at 10 years old by the time I was going on 25 the hill GM decided to put me to work in the ski school, haven't purchased a seasons pass since!
What drives your passion for skiing?
the shear fun of a well made turn and playing in the snow.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I live a simple life, money is only really needed to pay for home and car and groceries lol i come from a racing background (only skier in my family) USSA, adult leagues, USSA Masters study art and communications in college until recent semi retirement I designed custom homes.
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I started skiing at a local hill at 10 years old by the time I was going on 25 the hill GM decided to put me to work in the ski school, haven't purchased a seasons pass since!
What drives your passion for skiing?
the shear fun of a well made turn and playing in the snow.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I live a simple life, money is only really needed to pay for home and car and groceries lol i come from a racing background (only skier in my family) USSA, adult leagues, USSA Masters study art and communications in college until recent semi retirement I designed custom homes.
Elizabeth Schwab
Victor, ID, USA
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I grew up ski racing in upstate NY. Then I moved to the San Juan Mountains in SW Colorado which are notorious for their extreme avalanche behavior. In order to ski in that snowpack you have to learn about avalanches. So I decided to begin teaching and guiding in order to stay sharp. In turn teaching others a process to approaching backcountry skiing safely. Working in snow is fun and I’ll stick with it as long as it snows in the winter.
What drives your passion for skiing?
The simplicity and the snacks.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
My best job yet is Jackson Hole Ski Patrol. See you at the BBR!
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I grew up ski racing in upstate NY. Then I moved to the San Juan Mountains in SW Colorado which are notorious for their extreme avalanche behavior. In order to ski in that snowpack you have to learn about avalanches. So I decided to begin teaching and guiding in order to stay sharp. In turn teaching others a process to approaching backcountry skiing safely. Working in snow is fun and I’ll stick with it as long as it snows in the winter.
What drives your passion for skiing?
The simplicity and the snacks.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
My best job yet is Jackson Hole Ski Patrol. See you at the BBR!
Ernest Whitener
Appalachian Ski Mountain, NC, USA
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
A ski friend asked me to join the ski patrol with him.
What drives your passion for skiing?
The complete control of how fast to go and when and where to turn.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
Ski patroller for 25 years, helped coach a ski race team for 5 years and now work in a ski shop. I have helped the Southeast sales rep for Atomic for 22 years.
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
A ski friend asked me to join the ski patrol with him.
What drives your passion for skiing?
The complete control of how fast to go and when and where to turn.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
Ski patroller for 25 years, helped coach a ski race team for 5 years and now work in a ski shop. I have helped the Southeast sales rep for Atomic for 22 years.
Fred Feirn
Wild Mountain Taylor Falls, MN, USA
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I started working in the Snow Sports Industry as an Alpine Race Coach and Nastar Pacesetter
What drives your passion for skiing?
I love charging the steeps, floating powder and cruising groomers. I enjoy the whole Mountain experience.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I’m a high school Architectural Design teacher in Minnesota. Skiing is my winter passion. I am the head Alpine Race coach for the Wild Mountain Development Team. I also coach the White Bear Lake High School Alpine team. I have been a Nastar pacesetter for many years and enjoy the competition of the race league here in the Midwest. As a former pro level cyclist, when the snow melts you will find me on my road or mountain bike daily. I love the outdoors and spend a lot of time traveling and adventuring with my family.
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I started working in the Snow Sports Industry as an Alpine Race Coach and Nastar Pacesetter
What drives your passion for skiing?
I love charging the steeps, floating powder and cruising groomers. I enjoy the whole Mountain experience.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I’m a high school Architectural Design teacher in Minnesota. Skiing is my winter passion. I am the head Alpine Race coach for the Wild Mountain Development Team. I also coach the White Bear Lake High School Alpine team. I have been a Nastar pacesetter for many years and enjoy the competition of the race league here in the Midwest. As a former pro level cyclist, when the snow melts you will find me on my road or mountain bike daily. I love the outdoors and spend a lot of time traveling and adventuring with my family.
Frederick "Ricky" Newberry
Kirkwood, CA, USA
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
My parents told me to find a job you love and you'll never work another day in your life :)
What drives your passion for skiing?
I love skiing and sharing the sport with everyone, feeling the flow and sliding in/on snow!
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
My wife Maggie and I have raised our daughters skiing since they could walk. We love backpacking, biking and skiing in our backyard of the High Sierra. We also have two Golden Retrievers, Althea (Mom) and Captain (her son), who love to join us on all of our adventures!
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
My parents told me to find a job you love and you'll never work another day in your life :)
What drives your passion for skiing?
I love skiing and sharing the sport with everyone, feeling the flow and sliding in/on snow!
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
My wife Maggie and I have raised our daughters skiing since they could walk. We love backpacking, biking and skiing in our backyard of the High Sierra. We also have two Golden Retrievers, Althea (Mom) and Captain (her son), who love to join us on all of our adventures!
Jean-Pierre "JP" Schrambach
Schweitzer Mountain, ID, USA
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
There is a fine line between being a ski bum and a ski professional. I convinced my wife that I have a job and get paid for something I would do for free.
What drives your passion for skiing?
Being in awesome nature with all the sensations that skiing offers.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
Made in France skiing the Alps, I started with leather boots and bamboo poles. From an alpine military career to racing gates to back country adventure and heli skiing, I am now a ski school trainer and PSIA Level 3 ski instructor at Schweitzer Mountain in Idaho.
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
There is a fine line between being a ski bum and a ski professional. I convinced my wife that I have a job and get paid for something I would do for free.
What drives your passion for skiing?
Being in awesome nature with all the sensations that skiing offers.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
Made in France skiing the Alps, I started with leather boots and bamboo poles. From an alpine military career to racing gates to back country adventure and heli skiing, I am now a ski school trainer and PSIA Level 3 ski instructor at Schweitzer Mountain in Idaho.
Justin Arndt
Aspen, CO, USA
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
At 16, I earned my PSIA-AASI Level 1 Cross Country Certification to share the experience with my dad. In college, I taught Cross Country skiing during breaks and founded the Nordic Ski Team at Colorado State University, where I coached and raced. I’ve built my career in snowsports by saying "yes" to every opportunity that came my way.
What drives your passion for skiing?
Skiing has been my happy place since I could walk and a source of community through high school and college racing. I take pride in sharing the joy of skiing with people worldwide and find it incredibly rewarding to teach.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I grew up skiing in central Colorado, raced at Colorado State University, and co-founded the CSU Nordic Ski Club. After earning a B.S. in 2024, I earned PSIA-AASI certifications and taught at Breckenridge Nordic. I now serve on the PSIA-AASI Rocky Mountain Education Staff, the National Team, and teach at Aspen Snowmass. I enjoy hiking, running, roller skiing, and outdoor adventures.
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
At 16, I earned my PSIA-AASI Level 1 Cross Country Certification to share the experience with my dad. In college, I taught Cross Country skiing during breaks and founded the Nordic Ski Team at Colorado State University, where I coached and raced. I’ve built my career in snowsports by saying "yes" to every opportunity that came my way.
What drives your passion for skiing?
Skiing has been my happy place since I could walk and a source of community through high school and college racing. I take pride in sharing the joy of skiing with people worldwide and find it incredibly rewarding to teach.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I grew up skiing in central Colorado, raced at Colorado State University, and co-founded the CSU Nordic Ski Club. After earning a B.S. in 2024, I earned PSIA-AASI certifications and taught at Breckenridge Nordic. I now serve on the PSIA-AASI Rocky Mountain Education Staff, the National Team, and teach at Aspen Snowmass. I enjoy hiking, running, roller skiing, and outdoor adventures.
Marc Tron
Stratton, VT, USA
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I wanted to be on the mountain as much as possible!
What drives your passion for skiing?
My next adventure!
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I started skiing in 1965. Raced as a kid, then freestyled a bit. Starting teaching 35 years ago, now PSIA Level III.
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I wanted to be on the mountain as much as possible!
What drives your passion for skiing?
My next adventure!
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I started skiing in 1965. Raced as a kid, then freestyled a bit. Starting teaching 35 years ago, now PSIA Level III.
Matt Tripp
Okemo, VT, USA
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
Just love skiing!
What drives your passion for skiing?
The snow, the mountains and the culture drive my passion for skiing.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I love to ski powder! And I love to “talk skiing” while I work as a bootfitter.
My choice ski day would be a storm riding day. With a bluebird sunny day being a close 2nd.
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
Just love skiing!
What drives your passion for skiing?
The snow, the mountains and the culture drive my passion for skiing.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I love to ski powder! And I love to “talk skiing” while I work as a bootfitter.
My choice ski day would be a storm riding day. With a bluebird sunny day being a close 2nd.
Niko Giannioses
Big Sky, MT, USA
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I developed a passion for snow sports early on. In high school, a friend's dad, a Mt. Bachelor ski patroller, offered me an internship, fueling my interest. After moving to Montana, I got my EMT license and began ski patrolling at Big Sky Resort in 2016, where I've been ever since.
What drives your passion for skiing?
I love exploring the mountains and the thrill of climbing summits with my skis. The breathtaking views and skiing deep powder fuel my passion for winter sports, offering endless excitement and challenges.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I’ve lived in Bozeman for over ten years and plan to stay. When not skiing or mountain biking, I enjoy fly fishing or hiking with my girlfriend and dog. I’ve worked as an EMT and ski patroller at Big Sky Resort for eight years, and I love my morning avalanche routine at Headwaters Ridge with friends.
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I developed a passion for snow sports early on. In high school, a friend's dad, a Mt. Bachelor ski patroller, offered me an internship, fueling my interest. After moving to Montana, I got my EMT license and began ski patrolling at Big Sky Resort in 2016, where I've been ever since.
What drives your passion for skiing?
I love exploring the mountains and the thrill of climbing summits with my skis. The breathtaking views and skiing deep powder fuel my passion for winter sports, offering endless excitement and challenges.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I’ve lived in Bozeman for over ten years and plan to stay. When not skiing or mountain biking, I enjoy fly fishing or hiking with my girlfriend and dog. I’ve worked as an EMT and ski patroller at Big Sky Resort for eight years, and I love my morning avalanche routine at Headwaters Ridge with friends.
Ryan Ellison
Snowbasin Ski Resort, UT, USA
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I grew up inside the industry thru my father, who started teaching skiing to make sure I had a way to access the snow
What drives your passion for skiing?
The freedom to explore, the ability to create any adventure you want. Skiing is a way of life. Whatever avenue it is, there is something for everyone. It’s a truly beautiful thing.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
When I'm not skiing or training, I'm golfing or camping. Exploring outside and being able to see what lies beyond with my adventure/life partner. I love music and traveling for concerts.
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I grew up inside the industry thru my father, who started teaching skiing to make sure I had a way to access the snow
What drives your passion for skiing?
The freedom to explore, the ability to create any adventure you want. Skiing is a way of life. Whatever avenue it is, there is something for everyone. It’s a truly beautiful thing.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
When I'm not skiing or training, I'm golfing or camping. Exploring outside and being able to see what lies beyond with my adventure/life partner. I love music and traveling for concerts.
Stacey Gerrish
Beaver Creek Resort, CO, USA
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I grew up in a ski town in Vermont and my mom worked in the snow sports industry and put me on skis as soon as I could walk. After college I moved to Colorado with the intention of working in the snow sports industry, and that's what I've been doing ever since!
What drives your passion for skiing?
Skiing is an expression of personality. I love the wind in my face, the cold weather, the thrill of carving a turn or feeling snow spray in the powder. I love being in the mountains, the freedom of drawing arcs in the snow with my skis. I love connecting with other like-minded skiers on the chairlift.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
Skiing has fueled my life for all but my first two years on the planet. I can't imagine life without winter, or without skiing. When it's not winter I seek out the melted snow in the form of rivers, ponds, lakes and the ocean, or I'm in the mountains hiking. I manage the training program for the Beaver Creek Ski & Snowboard School. It's a great thrill to help people who are new to working in the industry adapt to making this their career!
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I grew up in a ski town in Vermont and my mom worked in the snow sports industry and put me on skis as soon as I could walk. After college I moved to Colorado with the intention of working in the snow sports industry, and that's what I've been doing ever since!
What drives your passion for skiing?
Skiing is an expression of personality. I love the wind in my face, the cold weather, the thrill of carving a turn or feeling snow spray in the powder. I love being in the mountains, the freedom of drawing arcs in the snow with my skis. I love connecting with other like-minded skiers on the chairlift.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
Skiing has fueled my life for all but my first two years on the planet. I can't imagine life without winter, or without skiing. When it's not winter I seek out the melted snow in the form of rivers, ponds, lakes and the ocean, or I'm in the mountains hiking. I manage the training program for the Beaver Creek Ski & Snowboard School. It's a great thrill to help people who are new to working in the industry adapt to making this their career!
Steven Jackson
Gore Mountain, NY, USA
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I had raced Alpine Before becoming a school teacher in 1985. Upon entering the work force I was approached take a coaching job at Bradford Hill in Massachusetts. I took the position, fell in love with it, and continued at multiple mountains and schools for the next 34 years.
What drives your passion for skiing?
First, trying to make the perfect turn on any terrain under any condition. Second, sharing the experience and knowledge with other like minded individuals.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I love all things outdoors! I am a competitive sailboat competitor. I have a passion for food and wine. I love meeting new people and learning from their experiences.
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I had raced Alpine Before becoming a school teacher in 1985. Upon entering the work force I was approached take a coaching job at Bradford Hill in Massachusetts. I took the position, fell in love with it, and continued at multiple mountains and schools for the next 34 years.
What drives your passion for skiing?
First, trying to make the perfect turn on any terrain under any condition. Second, sharing the experience and knowledge with other like minded individuals.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I love all things outdoors! I am a competitive sailboat competitor. I have a passion for food and wine. I love meeting new people and learning from their experiences.
Susan Smoll
Bear Creek Mountain Resort, PA, USA
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I took a job teaching skiing because I wanted to ski everyday.
What drives your passion for skiing?
Sliding with family and friends on cold winter days. It's so exhilarating!
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I've been skiing since I was a teenager and have been fortunate to make it my career. My greatest joy is to introduce new skiers to our sport.
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
I took a job teaching skiing because I wanted to ski everyday.
What drives your passion for skiing?
Sliding with family and friends on cold winter days. It's so exhilarating!
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
I've been skiing since I was a teenager and have been fortunate to make it my career. My greatest joy is to introduce new skiers to our sport.
Tyler Sullivan
Hermitage Club, VT
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
There came a time when my parents weren't going to pay for my pass anymore so I got a job at the local resort. Prior to that my whole family worked in snow sports and my first job was at a ski shop.
What drives your passion for skiing?
It's a sport I view and lifelong and love sharing that with as many people as I can.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
Skiing has always been apart of my life I started around 18 months and my whole family skis. Skiing has also brought me to many countries throughout my life and allowed me to meet some extraordinary people. My current skiing job has my at the Hermitage Club in southern Vermont with the title of Alpine Training supervisor.
How did you end up working in the Snow Sports industry?
There came a time when my parents weren't going to pay for my pass anymore so I got a job at the local resort. Prior to that my whole family worked in snow sports and my first job was at a ski shop.
What drives your passion for skiing?
It's a sport I view and lifelong and love sharing that with as many people as I can.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself...
Skiing has always been apart of my life I started around 18 months and my whole family skis. Skiing has also brought me to many countries throughout my life and allowed me to meet some extraordinary people. My current skiing job has my at the Hermitage Club in southern Vermont with the title of Alpine Training supervisor.