11/05/2025
Steeped In Tradition Episode 12 – Ski School
In celebration of Learn To Ski Month, Alta Ski Area and Sweetgrass Productions teamed up to tell the story—the origins and the ethos—of the Alf Engen Ski School.
"Skiing is for everyone. At any point in anyone's life, they should have the opportunity to go skiing." - Alf Engen
For nine decades, skiers have benefitted from the instruction and expertise of Alta's Ski School. Tradition, alongside decades of innovation, makes Alta Ski Area a premier destination for skiers seeking progression. From never-evers to off-piste experts, the variety of classes and quality of instruction will forever change the way you ski.
As one of the only ski schools in the nation that requires PSIA (Professional Ski Instructors of America) Certification for every instructor, the lessons imparted by our staff teach skiers to challenge and overcome their fears on the slopes—and in their lives beyond the mountains. Is skiing hard? Yes, but Ski School Director, Scott Mathers, says that "learning to ski can be enjoyably challenging," Throughout this journey, the role of Ski School can guide skiers to newfound growth and self-discovery.
The ultimate goal of the Alf Engen Ski School is to build confidence. Confidence imparts courage. The courage to access new terrain, brave more challenging conditions and enjoy new sensations. Veteran Ski School Instructor Mike Noble summarizes it best:
“I can promise you this, this could be an interesting afternoon or it might change your whole perspective about life.” - Mike Noble, Alf Engen Ski School Instructor
To take a lesson with the Alf Engen Ski School is to step into the respected traditions of a venerable mountain. You become a part of the decades of legends, the stories and the joy that skiing can foster.
The Alf Engen Ski School
Max Brennan
Abby Condon
Liz Ewaskio
Connie Knab
Nate Livingston
Scott Mathers
Nic Nichol
Mike Noble
Bryanna Raff
Skiers
Dave Amirault
Athena Bellodo
Kathleen Brown
Clare Chapman
Lexi Dowdall
Joe Fire
Drew Gilmore
Maddy Grainger
Jeremy Mathers
Chris Prado
Janet Tran
Family
Karenne Eng
Aubrey Burnett
Britta Burnett
Jonathan Morgan
Elise Morgan
Ella Morgan
Additional Ski Cast
Madison Ostergren
Megan McJames
Anna Marno
Erin Schiano
Jackie Baker
Re Wikstrom
Lexi Dowdall
Sam Cohen
Andrew Pollard
Jacqueline Pollard
Rachael Burks
Christal McCray
Mali Noyes
Nicole Cordingley
David ‘The Farmer’ Van Dame
Director
Michael J Brown
Executive Producer
Brandon Ott
Coordinator
Scott Mathers
Cinematography
Alex Mager
Margaret King
Tyler Struss
Edit
Margaret King
Michael J Brown
Music
Sero - ‘With You’
Southern Call - ‘Cactus Flower’
Jamison Dewlen - ‘Five Year Grave’
Mark Grundhoefer - ‘The Horn’
The Hunts - ‘Peace Be Still’
Archival Stills
Images Provided Courtesy of:
Marriott Library Special Collection
Archival Film
‘Margie of the Wasatch’
‘Alta 75th Anniversary: How to Ski’
