International Women’s Day

From the winter to the summer seasons, our hill comes to life thanks to the dedication, skill, and passion of the people who work here. That’s why this International Women’s Day, we’re proud to recognize the women on our team who play a vital role in keeping the resort running both on the slopes and behind the scenes.

Through their leadership and commitment, they help create the experiences guests look forward to each season. Whether grooming runs, teaching beginners to ski on Canada’s Best Snow, or supporting daily operations across the mountain, their work plays an important role in everything we do. In true Sunshine spirit, we invite you to meet some of the incredible women who help make our resort one of the best in the West.

Senna Glendinning
Originally from Edmonton, Alberta, Senna is entering her fourth year as a Slope Groomer and Snow Cat Driver at Sunshine!

What first drew you to Banff Sunshine, and what keeps you passionate about it today?

I grew up riding at Sunshine, I’ve always been passionate about the resort, and I realized that Banff Sunshine was my end goal and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. I love seeing guests appreciate all of our hard work and hearing about all the good times they have on the runs.

How has working at Banff Sunshine helped you grow personally?

I have an amazing team to stand with. They helped push my comfort level and my confidence with the job. We’re a close crew and I love being a part of the Cat Crew and supporting my team.

What advice would you give to young women entering this industry?

Do not be afraid to break down that wall and take the first step. It’ll be scary but it’ll be worth it. I believe in you.

If you were a trail at Banff Sunshine, which one would you be and why?

Forget me not because I’m so unforgettable.

Cailyn Heffron
Originally from Ontario, Cailyn is going into her second year as a Tiny Tigers and Daycare Supervisor!

What first drew you to Banff Sunshine, and what keeps you passionate about it today?

The scenery is what first drew me to Banff Sunshine Village. Getting to work at such a beautiful ski resort, while living in one of the most world-renowned mountain towns, is something I’m grateful for every single day. It never gets old. The community here and the people I work alongside are what continue to keep me passionate about coming back each season.

How has working at Banff Sunshine helped you grow personally?

I’ve grown a lot since starting at Sunshine. Being in a leadership role has pushed me in ways I didn’t always expect. Managing a team, navigating challenges, and learning how to support different personalities has built a lot of confidence in me. I’ve become a stronger leader, a better communicator, and a more confident skier and snowboarder. The mentors I’ve had here have played a big part in that growth, and I’m really thankful for it.

What advice would you give to young women entering this industry?

Go for it. Speak up. Be confident in yourself and your abilities. There is so much space for women to thrive in this industry. Don’t doubt yourself, you’re capable of more than you think.

If you were a trail at Banff Sunshine, which one would you be and why?

Eagle Creek on Goat’s Eye: it’s not the most talked-about run, but once you come across it, you’re glad you did. It’s steady, straightforward, and quietly part of what makes the mountain what it is.

Katie Smith
Originally from Essex, United Kingdom. Katie is midway through her first season as Trail Crew Assistant Supervisor!

What first drew you to Banff Sunshine, and what keeps you passionate about it today?

I started at Sunshine 3 years ago as a ski instructor, after teaching seasons in Japan and Switzerland. I had heard that Banff was a great town to live in and Sunshine a great place to work. I stayed because of the amazing people who I work alongside, in all departments, and also because I love to ski Canada’s best snow!

How has working at Banff Sunshine helped you grow personally?

Having worked in a few different departments over the past 3 years I have been able to figure out better what I do and don’t like in a job. I moved to trail crew two years ago and found that I was better suited to the mountain operations side of things – I love working hard in challenging conditions with a tight-knit team of people. This past season I have gained valuable supervisory experience, which has allowed me to grow in confidence as a leader. It is really cool to be making decisions on behalf of a team of 22 in such a fast paced and exciting environment.

What advice would you give to young women entering this industry?

It is important to remember that everyone brings something different to the team, and your resilience, determination and problem-solving skills are not determined by your gender. I am consistently inspired by the women who work at Sunshine, who show me every day that the girls are just as capable as the boys.

If you were a trail at Banff Sunshine, which one would you be and why?

Short and sweet 🙂 speaks for itself.

Emily Golds:
Originally from Calgary, Emily has been teaching snowboarding since 2014!

What first drew you to Banff Sunshine, and what keeps you passionate about it today?

I wanted to teach and work at a larger resort than I was before. I heard the training was excellent here (spoiler- it is) and what kept me here is the team we have. I love my coworkers and the community at sunshine. 🙂

How has working at Banff Sunshine helped you grow personally?

Working at sunshine has helped me grow immensely both personally and professionally. I have learned so much since being here, thanks to the friends I have made and the mentors who have taken me on. 

What advice would you give to young women entering this industry?

Be open to new experiences and be open to learn as much as you can. And don’t let anyone else tell you your limits, only you can do that. 

If you were a trail at Banff Sunshine, which one would you be and why?

I would be eagle creek or shaken not stirred. Only because they are two of my favorite runs. Maybe snow snake too 🙂 

Sarah Dowling:
Originally from Canada, Sarah is our Ski Patrol Supervisor at Banff Sunshine.

What first drew you to Banff Sunshine, and what keeps you passionate about it today?

I grew up in Calgary and started skiing at Sunshine at age four. It was my family’s home mountain and a big part of my childhood. After graduating with a Bachelor of Honours in Molecular Biology and Genetics from the University of Guelph, I felt drawn back to the mountains. I started as a summer Trail Host, moved to Trail Crew for my first winter, and soon joined Ski Patrol. My continued passion for the role stems from further growth through new responsibilities, continued education, and skill set development.

How has working at Banff Sunshine helped you grow personally?

Over my time at Sunshine, I have grown my confidence and decision making skills, specifically in relation to public safety and risk mitigation in an outdoor industry. The responsibility of my role has encouraged me to be more professional, reliable, and empathetic. Facing challenges throughout my day to day life has helped me to become more resilient and hold grace of myself. 

What advice would you give to young women joining the ski industry? 

Entering the ski industry as a young woman can be very rewarding. The field has historically been male dominated, but that’s changing. There are more opportunities and support than ever. Whatever part of the industry you wish to get into ensure you hone your skillset. Take the required courses and start building experience. Remember to remain persistent, diligent and advocate for yourself in the face of adversity. 

If you were a trail at Banff Sunshine which one would you be and why?

Forget-Me-Not. It’s one of my favorite alpine flowers, but the name also means something more to me. My time at Sunshine is something I hope to always carry with me, and I hope the effort, energy, and positivity I bring to the mountain will leave a small but lasting impression on the community around me.