Stephen Wagner
Tallahassee,FL
Summary
Experienced Snow Sports Instructor with 40 years in the industry and a 35-year certification from the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA). As a 16-year veteran of Vail Snow Sports School, consistently recognized as a top instructor, ready to contribute to a successful 2026/27 season at Golden Peak Snow Sports School.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Swimming Pool Designer/Builder/Owner/Operator
Aquatic Design Inc.
Tallahassee, FL
01.2013 - Current
- Constructed custom aquatic structures, meeting client specifications and adhering to industry standards for quality and safety.
- Developed innovative design concepts for aquatic environments, enhancing user experience and functionality.
- Collaborated with project teams to create detailed design specifications and documentation.
- Conducted thorough research on materials and technologies for sustainable aquatic designs.
- Created high-quality visual designs, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and user-friendly interactions.
Freelance Photographer
Stephen Wagner Photography
Denver, Colorado
05.1993 - Current
- Partnered with editors to curate compelling photographs for publication, enhancing visual storytelling.
- Teamed up with graphic designers and marketing professionals to create engaging visual content for campaigns.
- Collaborated with editors, writers, designers, and other professionals in developing stories.
- Built strong relationships with subjects to capture genuine moments, contributing to more relatable imagery.
- Traveled to different locations to capture newsworthy events on film or digitally.
- Worked closely with art directors on layout design for publications.
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.
- Researched and developed story ideas based on current events and trends.
Private Snow Sports Instructor at Vail Resorts
Vail Resorts Inc
Vail, Colorado
02.2011 - 03.2026
- Ensured safety protocols were followed at all times by all participants.
- Ensured safety protocols were followed during all training sessions.
- Created lesson plans that improved student engagement for various skill levels.
- Delivered targeted feedback and support, fostering student skill improvement.
- Provided feedback to athletes in order to improve their skill set.
- Partnered with team members to elevate overall customer experience.
- Worked collaboratively with other coaches or instructors on staff-wide initiatives.
- Organized and facilitated group activities and competitions.
- Mentored junior instructors in best practices and teaching methods.
Ski Boot Fitter
Ski Boot Fitting Inc.
Vail, Colorado
02.2011 - 03.2021
- Assembled components for mechanical systems, achieving precise fit and function.
- Operated machinery to fabricate parts according to specifications and safety protocols.
- Collaborated with team members to enhance assembly processes, contributing to overall efficiency.
- Trained new employees on assembly techniques and safety practices, fostering a safer work environment.
- Provided technical support to colleagues when required.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Commercial Photography
Colorado Art Institute
Denver, CO05-1993
Associate of Applied Science - Visual Communication
Art Institute of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, PA03-1983
Skills
- Safety protocols
- Customer service
- Team collaboration
- Professionalism and punctuality
- Equipment fitting
- Lesson planning
- Motivational coaching
- Race training experience
- Ski techniques
- Mountain safety awareness
Certification
- Psia Level 3 Certified
- PSIA Educational Staff (Examiner) Inactive
Timeline
Swimming Pool Designer/Builder/Owner/Operator
Aquatic Design Inc.
01.2013 - Current
Private Snow Sports Instructor at Vail Resorts
Vail Resorts Inc
02.2011 - 03.2026
Ski Boot Fitter
Ski Boot Fitting Inc.
02.2011 - 03.2021
Freelance Photographer
Stephen Wagner Photography
05.1993 - Current
Associate of Applied Science - Commercial Photography
Colorado Art Institute
Associate of Applied Science - Visual Communication
Art Institute of Pittsburgh