Behind the scenes at Whistler Adventure School. Article sponsored by WAS.
At Mountain Life, we know how important it is to want to create your own niche in the big outdoor world out there. But what’s it really like to study the outdoor-industry niche? Instead of us telling you about it, let’s listen to three former students from the Whistler Adventure School’s Marketing & Media Manager Program. These students gained some crucial skills and experience during their time at WAS, and today, they’re thriving in the outdoor industry.
In this little behind-the-scenes piece, we’ll hear about their journey—from their learning experiences and co-op work placements to where they are now. Along the way, we’ll learn how they’re combining their passion for the outdoors with their careers, what they do for fun, and what’s next for them.
ML: How would you explain how attending WAS helped your career path?
Lizzy Reimer: “Attending WAS played a crucial role. The hands-on learning experience with industry professionals was incredibly valuable. The photography classes with Phil Tifo, in particular, were extremely impactful. His on-mountain lessons provided practical insights into shooting in various outdoor environments, and his expertise helped me grow significantly as a photographer. The marketing courses were also incredibly helpful, offering me the tools to better market both myself and a brand, which has been key in the jobs I’ve had since attending WAS.”
Liam Rivera: “I had an incredible experience with the Whistler Adventure School’s Marketing and Media Program. The curriculum was immersive and hands on, equipping me with practical skills in photography, videography, marketing, and event planning. The instructors were not only knowledgeable and supportive but also genuinely invested in our success. Beyond the classroom, the program introduced me to real industry connections, helping me form meaningful relationships with professionals and like minded peers.”
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Amelia Burrill: “Whistler Adventure School (WAS) was a true game-changer for me. Graduating from the Marketing and Media Manager Diploma program not only accelerated my education but also opened doors to career opportunities in the outdoor industry. The hands-on experience the program offered was what really set it apart. I gained invaluable skills, particularly in photography and videography, which became a game-changer for my career. As someone with a deep passion for action sports, I found that learning directly from Phil Tifo, an industry legend, gave me the confidence to manage all visual aspects of marketing while enjoying the process. These skills have been an incredible asset in my marketing roles, enabling me to create compelling, high-quality content.”
ML: Part of the curriculum at WAS is real-world, hands-on experience via co-op placement with both local and national businesses and brands. How was this experience for you?
Lizzy: “My co-op placement as the Digital Media Specialist at Kumsheen Rafting Resort was an excellent opportunity to refine my skills in photography, videography, and social media management. After that, I worked as the On-Mountain Photographer and Content Development Coordinator at Castle Mountain Resort. This role gave me the incredible opportunity to shoot on the mountain nearly every day, which was amazing and allowed me to accumulate a lot of time behind the camera, fine-tuning my skills and learning to shoot in all kinds of weather and lighting conditions.”
Liam: “One of the most valuable aspects of mountain life’s co-op was the opportunity for real world experience. I was tasked with filming and capturing a few World Ski and Snowboard Festival events and creating reports for Mountain Life’s Instagram. While I had little experience in content creation, this opportunity taught me so much simply by exposing me to the process. Learning through trial and error, I developed the skills to capture content properly and professionally.”
Amelia: “I began my journey with a co-op placement as a social media manager for Bar Hop Whistler, a Gibbons Group company. This role gave me hands-on experience in social media marketing, and it was the perfect stepping stone for my next opportunity. Shortly after, I started as the Social Media and Marketing Coordinator for Crankworx, which was a dream come true, especially as a mountain biking enthusiast. My role at Crankworx not only allowed me to work for an iconic event but also provided me with additional co-op hours through my full-time job. Over the past year, my position at Crankworx has given me countless experiences I’m deeply thankful for. I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with incredible teams, support amazing events, and hone my skills in marketing and content creation in the outdoor and action sports industry.”
ML: What are you currently up to?
Lizzy: “I’m the Social Media & Content Coordinator for Tourism Fernie, a role that allows me to cover the major events in town and showcase all that Fernie has to offer. My work includes capturing a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and skiing, while also managing Tourism Fernie’s social media channels. It’s a great mix of creativity and strategy, and it’s really cool to share how awesome Fernie is to a broader audience.”
Amelia: “Currently, I’m working part-time for SOARE, a non-profit based in Squamish that supports outdoor industry professionals, where I manage social media marketing. I’m also actively seeking new opportunities within the outdoor industry to continue building my career. My experience in the outdoor/action sports marketing world has been incredibly fulfilling, and I’m excited to see where it takes me next.”
Liam: “Outside the classroom, I am a ski coach with the Whistler Blackcomb Freestyle Ski Club. Coaching freestyle skiing is something I truly love. Not only do I get to teach the sport I’m passionate about, but I also have the privilege of helping youth achieve their dreams and build confidence in an amazing sport.”
ML: And finally, what does fun look like for you when you’re not hard at work?
Lizzy: “When I’m not working or behind the camera, I love staying active through trail running, hiking, snowboarding, and mountain biking. This past summer, I completed both the Castle Alpine Trail Race and the Fernie Half Marathon, which were equally as rewarding as they were challenging. Looking ahead, I hope to continue growing my freelance photography career, capturing people’s passion and pursuits in the outdoors.”
Amelia: “When I’m not working or grinding through my “5-9” after my “9-5,” I’m an avid mountain biker and adventure sports enthusiast. The mountains are where I truly feel at home, whether I’m biking, skiing, or just exploring the outdoors. Photography is another passion of mine, and I love capturing the beauty and energy of action sports. I also enjoy meeting new people and building connections within my community, fostering relationships that fuel my personal and professional growth.”
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