PSIA is the Professional Ski Instructors of America, a professional organization with some 30,000+ members nationwide. Its mission is to support its members, as a part of the snowsport industry, to develop personally and professionally, create positive learning experiences, and have more fun. Its vision is to inspire lifelong passion for the mountain experience. PSIA works with ski industry partners to promote skiing and ski instruction to the public. These partners include the National Ski Areas Association and the National Ski Patrol as well as tourism and recreation groups, manufacturers, and the media. PSIA has alpine, nordic, and snowboarding divisions. PSIA's headquarters are in Lakewood, CO.

The American Mountain Guide Association is a non-profit organization that seeks to represent the interests of American mountain guides by providing support, education, and standards. The AMGA was founded in 1979 by a handful of guides. It has grown to include over 1,000 members nationwide. Throughout its history, the AMGA has evolved to meet the needs of its members, which include independent guides as well as those working for guiding companies. We operate with an elected board of directors who represent a broad spectrum of the guides working in the United States. The AMGA offers training courses and certification exams in three different disciplines: rock, alpine and ski mountaineering.