A new board of directors with a female majority for the Quebec Ski Areas Association

Gathered in general assembly yesterday at Mont-Orford, the members of the Quebec Ski Areas Association (ASSQ) elected their new board of directors for the 2026-2027 year. This assembly marks an important change in leadership at the head of the organization as Mr. Luc Élie, owner and general manager of Mont Rigaud, succeeds Mr. Jean-Michel Ryan as president of the organization.

After 15 years of involvement on the board of directors, including 10 as president, Mr. Jean-Michel Ryan , president and CEO of Mont Sutton, is stepping down and leaving an important mark on the Association and the Quebec ski industry.

The members of the ASSQ and the permanent staff wished to highlight his commitment, leadership, and contribution to the promotion of snow sports, as well as the many years he dedicated to advancing the industry and supporting member resorts. A commemorative plaque and a painting by artist André Buist were presented to him to express the Association's gratitude for his exceptional contribution.

New council composition

This year, six leaders from the ski industry applied for one of the four open positions on the board of directors. Mr. Simon Blouin , General Manager of the Mont-Orford Ski & Golf Corporation, joins the board. Ms. Annique Aird, of Station Mont Tremblant, Mr. Philippe Boisclair , of Ski Garceau, and Mr. Élie were re-elected. The new board also includes Ms. Kathy Deschamps , of Bromont, montagne d'expériences, who joined the group last July. She continues her commitment alongside the other directors whose terms are ongoing.

“This new composition reflects the diversity of expertise and voices that are shaping our industry today. Our board of directors brings together leaders from stations of varying sizes and regions, with invaluable experience to support the ASSQ in achieving its priorities,” emphasizes Mr. Yves Juneau, CEO of the organization. The new board’s mission will include overseeing the implementation of the ASSQ’s action plan and ensuring that it adequately addresses the industry’s priorities.

Composition of the board of directors 2026-2027:

• Luc Élie, Mont Rigaud President

• Isabelle Émond, Ski Blue Valley Vice-President

• Nadia Pépin, Gleason Secretary

• Philippe Boisclair , Ski GarceauTreasurer

• Kathy Deschamps, Bromont, mountain of experiences Administrator

• Simon Blouin, Ski & Golf Corporation Mont-Orford Administrator

• Annique Aird , Mont Tremblant Resort Administrator

• Christian Dufour, The Summits Administrator

• Sandra Nadeau, Le Relais Ski Center Administrator

Priorities for the industry

As the 2026-2027 season approaches, several issues will continue to mobilize the ASSQ and its members. Among the priorities are access to financing for strategic infrastructure , support for resorts in their climate change adaptation measures and their sustainable development approach, as well as several projects in the acquisition of strategic knowledge, notably through the integration of artificial intelligence.

Developing new skiers and snowboarders will also remain central to the Association's activities. Finally, the ASSQ will continue its involvement in the Montreal Project. in the Quartier des spectacles, an initiative that aims to introduce the culture and pleasures of Quebec winter in the metropolis.

Following the ASSQ's Annual General Meeting, members and partners enjoyed a friendly round of golf at the Mont-Orford Golf Club. The 2026 edition raised a record-breaking $18,000 for the Iniski and Inisurf at School Foundation . This sum will allow the organization to continue its initiatives supporting the next generation of skiers and snowboarders in Quebec. Each year, more than 40,000 young people discover snow sports thanks to the educational programs and various initiatives supported by the Foundation.

Together, the ASSQ and its board of directors intend to continue to develop the industry with ambition, innovation and confidence.

For over 40 years, the ASSQ has been working to represent and support Quebec ski resorts in developing best business practices. A non-profit organization, the ASSQ promotes snow sports, enhances the customer experience, and supports resort performance to ensure their long-term viability. Through initiatives like Ski Passe-Partout, which fund the Association's activities, more than 40,000 young people are introduced to skiing and snowboarding each year, free of charge, and encouraged to adopt healthy lifestyle habits. In the context of climate change, the ASSQ is expanding its mission by supporting the industry and the public in the evolution of resorts and mountain activities. It is committed to fostering a sustainable environment for skiing and snowboarding and supporting its members' adaptation to the new realities of the ski industry.