Industry News
Big White Ski Resort, British Columbia, is thrilled to announce that it will host the Federation Internationale de Patrouilles de Ski (FIPS) Conference, bringing together the world’s foremost ski patrol professionals, leaders, and innovators.
The conference will take place from March 27 to April 3, 2026, showcasing the resort’s world-class facilities, breathtaking alpine scenery, and legendary snow.
The FIPS Conference is the ultimate gathering for ski patrol experts from across the globe. It fosters collaboration, shares best practices, and explores cutting-edge safety, rescue, and mountain operations advancements. Big White is honored to host FIPS for the second time, cementing its reputation as a leader in ski safety and mountain excellence.
“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome FIPS and its members to our beautiful resort. This conference is a testament to our commitment to mountain safety and the incredible work of ski patrollers worldwide. We’re proud to provide a platform for innovation and learning right here in the heart of British Columbia.”
– Michael J Ballingall, Senior Vice President of Big White Ski Resort
Delegates will experience more than insightful workshops and engaging keynote sessions. Big White’s unique charm, renowned Okanagan champagne powder, ski-in/ski-out village, and vibrant après-ski scene promise attendees an unforgettable mountain experience.
“Fédération Internationale des Patrouilles de Ski (FIPS) is extremely pleased to hold its XXV World Congress in North America and Canada for the first time since 2014. The Canadian Ski Patrol is the host FIPS member and has selected Big White Ski Resort as the venue for March 2026, and will welcome member organizations from 17 countries. This is the second time the World Congress will be held at Big White where its facilities and terrain provide the ideal setting for professional development of patrolling skills and knowledge.”
– Marie Nordgren, President of FIPS
Highlights of the Event Include:
- An opening ceremony welcoming delegates from over 17 countries.
- Live demonstrations of the latest ski patrol techniques and technologies.
- Interactive workshops and panel discussions featuring global experts. Networking opportunities on the slopes and in Big White’s renowned village.
- Showcase of the resort’s extensive safety programs and innovations.
Big White Ski Resort is proud to support the global ski patrol community, recognizing their dedication to making mountains safer for everyone. This event is an extraordinary opportunity to celebrate their vital work while highlighting Kelowna as a premier winter destination.
Fédération Internationale des Patrouilles de Ski (FIPS) is the international organization representing ski patrol and associated ski safety organizations with membership worldwide. These organizations comprise ski patrollers, physicians, lawyers, engineers, technicians, ski equipment manufacturers, snow sports instructors, ski area managers, policemen and women, ambulance officers, and a raft of other volunteers and professionals involved in the multi-disciplinary activities of ski patrolling. For more information about FIPS, visit: fips-skipatrol.org
