Accredited Institution forquality career education
Whistler Adventure School (WAS) is a private career training institution accredited and certified by the Government of British Columbia through PTIRU. That accreditation means our programs meet established provincial standards and are recognized as legitimate career education, not just short courses or recreational training.
For you as a learner, this brings real, practical benefits. Eligible WAS courses may be supported through government employer training grants, RESP funds can be applied toward accredited programs, and tuition costs can be claimed as education tax credits using form T2202. It’s training that invests in your skills while also supporting you financially as you build your future in the bike industry.
Career Pathways Built Around Real Skills
WAS offers clear training pathways in bicycle mechanics, from home mechanic foundations through to advanced professional levels. As the only certified Cytech training provider in North America, our bike programs deliver internationally recognized credentials that open doors across the cycling industry.
Beyond bicycle mechanics, students can pursue the Mountain Sport Technician program or specialize through individual courses in Sustainable Trail Building, Ski & Snowboard Production, and Ski & Snowboard Boot Fitting. These programs are designed to build practical, job-ready skills that translate directly into work across tourism, outdoor recreation, mountain operations, manufacturing, mechanics, and marketing and media roles within the outdoor industry.
A certificate from Whistler Adventure School prepares students for meaningful, in-demand careers both locally and internationally. Our graduates have gone on to launch their own businesses, build media projects, work as professional guides, and step confidently into technical and operational roles within the mountain sports world.
WAS doesn’t just deliver training, we work with students to shape an educational experience that supports their individual goals and helps turn skills into sustainable career paths.
Located in Whistler,British Columbia, Canada
Whistler is a unique place and international hub for diversity, activities and cultural richness. Whistler is the number one ski and bike resort in North America – hosting amazing winter and summer activities, festivals, arts and culture.
Students can study and work while enjoying the Whistler lifestyle of skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, hiking, and living close to nature.
Hands-On Learning Experience
At Whistler Adventure School, learning is active, practical, and grounded in real-world application. Our programs are built around hands-on training that mirrors the environments and challenges students will face in the field, whether that’s in a professional bike workshop, on mountain trails, or within a high-performance snow sports setting.
Students spend the majority of their time developing skills through guided practice, using industry-standard tools, equipment, and techniques. Instruction is led by experienced professionals who bring current industry knowledge into the classroom and workshop, ensuring training stays relevant, modern, and aligned with employer expectations.
Class sizes are intentionally kept small to support individual coaching, meaningful feedback, and confidence-building progression. This allows students to ask questions, refine techniques, and build competence at their own pace while still meeting professional standards.
By the time students complete their training, they haven’t just learned how things work, they’ve practiced them, problem-solved in real scenarios, and developed the confidence needed to step into professional roles or advance their existing careers.
A Day in the Life
Thinking of going to school abroad? Or even a different city? We’ll take you on a day in the life of an International student. Leandro moved from Brazil to study at Whistler Adventure School (WAS), a post secondary career school located in the beautiful ski, snowboarding and biking resort town of Whistler, British Columbia in Canada. Leandro will take you on a typical day as he works, studies and enjoys the natural beauty of the Sea to Sky Corridor.
Some facts about Whistler:
- Whistler’s population approximately 15,625
- 77% of the work force lives in Whistler
- Whistler Village elevation is 675 meters (2,214 feet)
- Whistler is about 2 hours by car from Vancouver, 2.5 from the airport and 5 hours from Seattle
- Approximately 3 million people visit Whistler every year, with a capacity of 30,000 overnight visitors.
- Click here for more facts about Whistler
WAS believes in
- small & interactive classes
- flexible course timelines
- a strong focus on providing a hands-on learning experience
- allowing students the opportunity to live an adventurous, active lifestyle while pursuing an education
Live Learn Play: the adventure
- Live - in the beautiful mountain town of Whistler with many adventures surrounding you
- Learn - what you love with a hands-on learning experience and like-minded students
- Play - your favorite activities in and around Whistler