Industry News
The United Professional Ski Patrols of America, a union that has advocated for ski patrollers and industry professionals for nearly two decades, has announced it will now operate as the United Mountain Workers (UMW). The name change reflects the organization’s growth, expanded membership, and a broader vision for the future of ski industry workers.
In a statement released on social media, UMW leadership expressed pride in the decision, saying, “Our old name United Professional Ski Patrols of America has served us well for the past 19 years, but our growth, expansion and vision for the future include more than just ski patrollers.”
UMW now represents more than 1,100 skilled ski industry workers, including ski patrollers, mechanics, and electricians. The organization spans 16 distinct groups at 13 ski resorts across four states in the West and aims to ensure a sustainable livelihood for all mountain workers.
“We want to create a ski industry that ensures a sustainable livelihood for all workers,” the statement continued. “Every new UMW member gets us more power in this fight.”
The shift shows the union’s commitment to inclusivity and equity within an industry often reliant on seasonal labor. While ski patrollers remain a vital part of UMW’s membership, the organization’s expansion recognizes the essential contributions of other mountain professionals, from lift mechanics to electrical crews, in keeping resorts operational.
Professional skier and Indigenous filmmaker Connor Ryan celebrated the announcement on social media, writing: “Yes! All power to the people! ✊ Love seeing this become more accessible, so many more workers on the mountain need equity! ❄️❄️”
The United Mountain Workers encourages those interested to learn more and join their efforts through their website, emphasizing that every member strengthens their collective bargaining power. The name change marks a milestone for the organization as it continues to advocate for better conditions, fair wages, and equity for mountain workers across the western United States.
