AIARE Professional Growth Network

Since its launch in 2021, PGN has helped strengthen the snow and avalanche community by connecting emerging professionals with experienced mentors, expanding access to professional development and reducing barriers for those pursuing careers in the avalanche profession. 

Over the past five years, 42 dedicated mentors generously shared their time and expertise with 236 mentees, creating meaningful relationships that continue to influence our industry today. We are incredibly grateful to every mentor, mentee, volunteer, partner and sponsor who made the program possible.

2026–27 Season Update

After careful consideration, AIARE has made the difficult decision not to run Professional Growth Network programming in the 2026–27 season.

AIARE remains committed to supporting the next generation of avalanche educators. As part of our strategic plan, we are investing in new recreational and professional curriculum, expanded educational pathways, scholarships and instructor development. As this work evolves, we intend to carry forward the core principles that made PGN successful by integrating them into AIARE’s core and educational programs and resources. We believe that this approach will allow us to support an even broader community while continuing to advance our mission of saving lives through avalanche education.

5 people smiling on snow with skis with excitement and arms outstretched.

Photo courtesy of Sarina Pizzala Photography

Two women smiling at each other standing in snow gear on snow.

Photo courtesy of Sarina Pizzala Photography

Two women smiling after an airbag test deployment.

Photo courtesy of Izzy Lazarus

Women gathered around a table at computers learning.

Photo courtesy of Lindsay Davis

Two women smiling with a drastic snow-covered mountain landscape in background.

Photo courtesy of Joy Seward

Group pauses on skin track to observe surface snow.

Photo courtesy of Jacque Tietjen

Women smiling at a ski resort base area.

Photo courtesy of Jacque Tietjen

Woman smiling in the snow with trees.

Photo courtesy of Joy Seward

Two golden retriever dogs sitting in front of a yurt. One is yawning. The words "Coffee is hot" is written into the door window's condensation.

Photo courtesy of Joy Seward

Two people walk across the snow covered valley bottom toward an open creek.

Photo courtesy of Joy Seward

Skiing down an open slope, with a skin track trailing into the background trees.

Photo courtesy of Jacque Tietjen

Woman smiling and eating snacks with ski tracks on the slope behind.

Photo courtesy of Angelique Carl

Other Opportunities at AIARE

The Professional Growth Network isn’t the only way AIARE supports gender equity. AIARE also offers affinity PRO and instructor training courses as well as scholarships, including gender-specific and motorized offerings.

scholarships
instructor training courses
professional courses

Already an AIARE Instructor or industry professional? Browse AIARE’s collection of continuing education materials, including webinars on a variety of topics, such as “Worker Wellness in the Avalanche Industry.”

If you’re looking for a recreational avalanche course, many AIARE Providers operate affinity programs. Find a provider and course near you using AIARE’s search tool.