Originally from Feistritz, Austria, Mike Wiegele came to Canada in 1959 to pursue his passion of skiing. He has worked with industry legends Ernie McCulloch at Mont Tremblant and Junior Bonous at Sugar Bowl Ski School.
In 1964, Mike was certified as a Level 4 instructor by the Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance. Soon after, he began to operate a ski school and pro shop in Lake Louise. At the same time he began coaching for the Lake Louise Ski Club which produced six National Team athletes: Ken Read, Jim Read, Chris Kent, Bobby Allison, Mike Irwin and Bill Irwin.
In 1967 Mike married Bonnie in Lake Louise. Together with friends, they founded the Banff Alpine Racers and Bow Valley Quikies. Mike Wiegele opened his first heli-skiing operation in Valemount in 1970. After exploring different mountain ranges and searching for optimal weather patterns he moved his operations to Blue River a few years later. In 1990 Mike founded the Canadian Ski Guide Association in order to train young Canadians as ski guides.
Throughout his skiing career Mike Wiegele has been dedicated to mountain safety. He initiated the Blue River Avalanche Research Centre in partnership with the Federal Government and the University of Calgary. In 2000, he was elected into the Canadian Ski Hall of Fame and was inducted into the Honour Roll of Canadian Skiing for outstanding contributions to the growth and development of skiing in Canada. In 2006, he was inducted into the Banff Sports Hall of Fame.
Mike Wiegele still skis and guides guests safely through the mountains throughout the winter season - living true to his favorite saying "Let's Go Skiing!"
Born with skiing in her blood, Michelle feels most alive with a board strapped to her feet on a powder slope. Being brought up in the wilderness has had the most influence on Michelle’s life. Since 1992, she has used her skills in landscape planning and environmental development to transform the Wiegele Resort grounds into the picturesque retreat seen today. Since 2000, Michelle has taken a leadership role as president of Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing. Fun, lighthearted, and a great listener, Michelle has a relaxed manner and easiness about her. When asked what she’d do if given the chance, Michelle’s adventurous and exuberant personality comes to light, as she quickly answers – bi-athlete! Michelle’s diverse skills include an interesting ability to create the most amazing meal from whatever she has in the fridge. A special skill that impresses even the most selective appetite - just ask her two-year old son Charlie. Influenced by both her mother and father, Michelle’s direct and truthful demeanor is refreshing and truly depicts what it is to be a Wiegele.
Executive Assistant kcartwright@wiegele.com Enticed by fresh powder and the opportunity to work for a legend in the ski industry, Kalli quickly jumped into the position of Executive Assistant to Mike and Michelle Wiegele after completing a Master’s Degree of Business Administration at Thompson Rivers University in 2007. Kalli’s captivating smile, great sense of humor and drive for excellence make her a great asset to the Wiegele team. Kalli enjoys strapping on her board and flying down powder runs in the winter as well as cliff jumping into the crystal clear Blue River lakes in the summer. Her Mediterranean heritage lends her an outstanding aptitude for cooking and one of Kalli’s favorite pastimes is throwing dinner parties, filling her guests to the brim with homemade delights and red wine. Following her interest in finance, Kalli looks forward to pursuing her Certified Management Accounting Designation in January 2009. Kalli also holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology
Enticed by fresh powder and the opportunity to work for a legend in the ski industry, Kalli quickly jumped into the position of Executive Assistant to Mike and Michelle Wiegele after completing a Master’s Degree of Business Administration at Thompson Rivers University in 2007. Kalli’s captivating smile, great sense of humor and drive for excellence make her a great asset to the Wiegele team. Kalli enjoys strapping on her board and flying down powder runs in the winter as well as cliff jumping into the crystal clear Blue River lakes in the summer. Her Mediterranean heritage lends her an outstanding aptitude for cooking and one of Kalli’s favorite pastimes is throwing dinner parties, filling her guests to the brim with homemade delights and red wine. Following her interest in finance, Kalli looks forward to pursuing her Certified Management Accounting Designation in January 2009. Kalli also holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology
Ski Guiding Services | Guiding Operations Manager magerer@wiegele.com
With nearly a decade and a half of experience at Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing, Manfred has truly pursued his lifelong passion of skiing powder. Manfred’s organizational skills, impeccable teaching ability, precision, and expertise in mountain safety and rescue techniques are only a few of the reasons he fills the position of Guiding Operations Manager so well. An adventurer at heart, Manfred is truly in his element in Blue River and spends as much time as possible outdoors - climbing, mountain biking, motor biking and horseback riding. Manfred holds the highest certifications obtainable from the Austrian Ski Instructor Federation, staatlich geprüfter Schilehrer (Ski Instructor) and staatlich geprüfter Bergführer (Mountain Guide). Manfred looks forward to guiding you through the most pristine powder in the world.
Director of Project & Resort Development abrown@wiegele.com
We are proud to announce our newest member to the Wiegele team, Adam Brown, as Director of Project and Resort Development. Adam’s background in resort planning and sustainable development as well as his focused high energy will be a significant asset for the planned developments at the Blue River Resort. Prior to joining Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing, Adam worked with the resort planning group Brent Harley and Associates, assisting the development of the master plans for The Resort at Saddle Mountain. Adam looks forward to bringing the Saddle Mountain development to life, and enhancing an already extraordinary ski experience for all Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing guests. As an avid skier and cyclist, Adam is excited to be living in Blue River where he can enjoy the freshest, most consistent powder in the world and the incredible outdoor environment. Adam is always delighted to discuss the future of the Wiegele Resort so be sure to ask him about exciting updates when you see him in Blue River.
Director, Sales & Guest Relationships daniela@wiegele.com As Director of Sales and Guest Relationships, Daniela leads a team of professionals to deliver the best sales and marketing efforts possible. Daniela’s dedication, strong communication skills and unique personality are indispensable in meeting the needs and diversity of Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing guests. Holding an International Diploma in Tourism and possessing over fifteen years of experience in the hotel industry, Daniela is no stranger to the hotel and tourism industry. Daniela is fluent in both German and English and her remarkable networking abilities have been key in the many long-standing relationships she has developed over the years. Her skill-base lends to both the quality and productivity Daniela shows in her work as well as her and her team’s performance. Daniela came to Blue River in 1994 during a trip around the world and has been here ever since. Perhaps it was the resemblance of her home town in the Tyrolean Alps or the phenomenal helicopter experiences, but Daniela has never looked back. Daniela’s repertoire of leisure activities is endless, but some of her favorite things include: skiing - particularly helicopter skiing - running, traveling, music, and most recently surfing. Daniela holds a Level 1 certification from the Canadian Ski Instructor’s Alliance.
Sales Associate & Lead Ski Guide tmclean@wiegele.com Tim McLean was drawn to work in Blue River by Mike Wiegele’s legendary reputation, the incredible mountains and the world-renowned powder. Tim is entering his 12th season as a guide and 3rd season a sales associate at the Resort and looks forward to many more years working with the Wiegele team. Tim is known for his charismatic demeanor and fun attitude and is an asset both in the office and the mountains. Dedicated to his passion of skiing and safety in the backcountry, Tim relishes every opportunity for adventurous tours throughout the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains. Tim also enjoys spending his leisure time at the numerous lakes around Blue River, fly fishing for fresh trout and salmon. Tim holds a Level 3 Certification from the Canadian Ski Instructor’s Alliance, a Level 3 Certification from the Canadian Ski Guide Association and a Level 2 Certification from the Canadian Avalanche Association. Tim holds a Batchelor’s Degree in Physical Health Education from the University of Toronto and a Diploma in Adventure Tourism from Thompson Rivers University. Tim values the life-long relationships he has developed with clients and colleagues and looks forward to meeting many more new guests.
Tim McLean was drawn to work in Blue River by Mike Wiegele’s legendary reputation, the incredible mountains and the world-renowned powder. Tim is entering his 12th season as a guide and 3rd season a sales associate at the Resort and looks forward to many more years working with the Wiegele team. Tim is known for his charismatic demeanor and fun attitude and is an asset both in the office and the mountains. Dedicated to his passion of skiing and safety in the backcountry, Tim relishes every opportunity for adventurous tours throughout the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains. Tim also enjoys spending his leisure time at the numerous lakes around Blue River, fly fishing for fresh trout and salmon. Tim holds a Level 3 Certification from the Canadian Ski Instructor’s Alliance, a Level 3 Certification from the Canadian Ski Guide Association and a Level 2 Certification from the Canadian Avalanche Association. Tim holds a Batchelor’s Degree in Physical Health Education from the University of Toronto and a Diploma in Adventure Tourism from Thompson Rivers University. Tim values the life-long relationships he has developed with clients and colleagues and looks forward to meeting many more new guests.
Sales Associate & Lead Ski Guide rbetts@wiegele.com Born and raised in an area of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, known more for fiddle music and lobster rather than skiing, Ron Betts left the east coast nine years ago to join the guiding team at Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing. A man enthralled by the natural elements, Ron takes every chance to enjoy the outdoors - skiing, surfing, dirt biking, or hiking with his dog. Enticed by working for the best helicopter skiing operation in the world, Ron has built his career at Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing as both a guide and a sales associate. Ron holds a Level 4 Certification from the Canadian Ski Instructor’s Alliance, a Level 3 Certification from the Canadian Ski Guide Association and a Level 3 Certification from the Canadian Ski Coaches Federation. Ron looks forward to guiding you through the countless runs and magnificent powder only found in Wiegele country.
Born and raised in an area of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, known more for fiddle music and lobster rather than skiing, Ron Betts left the east coast nine years ago to join the guiding team at Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing. A man enthralled by the natural elements, Ron takes every chance to enjoy the outdoors - skiing, surfing, dirt biking, or hiking with his dog. Enticed by working for the best helicopter skiing operation in the world, Ron has built his career at Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing as both a guide and a sales associate. Ron holds a Level 4 Certification from the Canadian Ski Instructor’s Alliance, a Level 3 Certification from the Canadian Ski Guide Association and a Level 3 Certification from the Canadian Ski Coaches Federation. Ron looks forward to guiding you through the countless runs and magnificent powder only found in Wiegele country.
Reservations Supervisor mmichaud@wiegele.com Friendly, organized, effervescent, and an eagerness to help is everything you’d expect from a reservation manager and Melissa does not disappoint. Working at Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing for five years and entering her 3rd winter season as Reservations Manager, Melissa enjoys the relaxed atmosphere Blue River offers in the summer and the excitement found in the winter. Melissa is one of those people that takes every opportunity to live life to the fullest and spends her days off skiing, hiking, watching movies, or curling up with a good book and her cat. Melissa holds a Batchelor of Commerce Degree from the University of Victoria with a specialization in Entrepreneurship.
Friendly, organized, effervescent, and an eagerness to help is everything you’d expect from a reservation manager and Melissa does not disappoint. Working at Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing for five years and entering her 3rd winter season as Reservations Manager, Melissa enjoys the relaxed atmosphere Blue River offers in the summer and the excitement found in the winter. Melissa is one of those people that takes every opportunity to live life to the fullest and spends her days off skiing, hiking, watching movies, or curling up with a good book and her cat. Melissa holds a Batchelor of Commerce Degree from the University of Victoria with a specialization in Entrepreneurship.
Front Desk Accommodations Manager tkellough@wiegele.com Growing up in Blue River has truly had a strong impact on Tracey’s life and she wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. Working at Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing for the last thirteen years, Tracey excels in her position as Front Desk Manager and maintains that the best part of her job is being able to teach, share and watch others excel. As a child, Tracey and her family spent a summer touring with a fair, living on a school bus with eight ponies. Her love of horses has continued throughout her life. Tracey laughingly admits that John Wayne is her childhood hero – because he always rode Buckskin horses. Tracey’s contagious smile and positive outlook will greet you on your arrival at the Resort and then you’ll understand why we love having her around so much.
Growing up in Blue River has truly had a strong impact on Tracey’s life and she wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. Working at Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing for the last thirteen years, Tracey excels in her position as Front Desk Manager and maintains that the best part of her job is being able to teach, share and watch others excel. As a child, Tracey and her family spent a summer touring with a fair, living on a school bus with eight ponies. Her love of horses has continued throughout her life. Tracey laughingly admits that John Wayne is her childhood hero – because he always rode Buckskin horses. Tracey’s contagious smile and positive outlook will greet you on your arrival at the Resort and then you’ll understand why we love having her around so much.
Food & Beverage Manager mmolfenter@wiegele.com Like many other employees at Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing, Marcus came for the best powder in the world, and has not been disappointed. Marcus is truly fulfilling his life-long goal to ski the most vertical possible and to enjoy life to the fullest. Since his arrival five years ago, Marcus has felt a true connection to Blue River and treasures the relationships he has developed both with guests and staff. In May 2008, Marcus married Patti Dyer, a registered Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing massage therapist. Both Marcus and his wife enjoy the year-round activities found in the magnificent Blue River region and spend many hours outside of work skiing, mountain biking, hiking, canoeing, fishing, and playing volleyball. Marcus holds a Degree in Tourism and Hospitality as well as completing a Hospitality Management Diploma from Malaspina College. As Food and Beverage Manager, Marcus takes pride in his career and enjoys the challenges and rewards of his job.
Like many other employees at Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing, Marcus came for the best powder in the world, and has not been disappointed. Marcus is truly fulfilling his life-long goal to ski the most vertical possible and to enjoy life to the fullest. Since his arrival five years ago, Marcus has felt a true connection to Blue River and treasures the relationships he has developed both with guests and staff. In May 2008, Marcus married Patti Dyer, a registered Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing massage therapist. Both Marcus and his wife enjoy the year-round activities found in the magnificent Blue River region and spend many hours outside of work skiing, mountain biking, hiking, canoeing, fishing, and playing volleyball. Marcus holds a Degree in Tourism and Hospitality as well as completing a Hospitality Management Diploma from Malaspina College. As Food and Beverage Manager, Marcus takes pride in his career and enjoys the challenges and rewards of his job.
Executive Chef tspori@wiegele.com Executive Chef uses his thirty years of experience and unequalled passion for cooking to create unforgettable culinary delights for Blue River guests. Toni trained in Europe and apprenticed in the scenic town of Lyss, Switzerland. A pursuit of the best skiing in the world brought Toni to Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing seventeen years ago, but a connection to the people and landscape is what has kept him in Blue River. Although he believes that he is only as good as his team, Toni personally creates every menu and strives to please the most refined palate. Pairing his European heritage and training with the freshest B.C. products available, Chef Toni creates enticing and innovative gourmet meals that are sure to stimulate your senses and charm your taste buds.
Executive Chef uses his thirty years of experience and unequalled passion for cooking to create unforgettable culinary delights for Blue River guests. Toni trained in Europe and apprenticed in the scenic town of Lyss, Switzerland. A pursuit of the best skiing in the world brought Toni to Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing seventeen years ago, but a connection to the people and landscape is what has kept him in Blue River. Although he believes that he is only as good as his team, Toni personally creates every menu and strives to please the most refined palate. Pairing his European heritage and training with the freshest B.C. products available, Chef Toni creates enticing and innovative gourmet meals that are sure to stimulate your senses and charm your taste buds.
Saddle Mt. Restaurant Chef dpoisson@wiegele.com Although Dylan originally came to Blue River in 1997 to work as a logger, he found a different calling after only a year. Dylan realized logging just wasn’t in his blood and began a career as a chef the old fashion way – working as a dishwasher. In less than four years Dylan became head chef of the Saddle Mountain Restaurant. Dylan accredits much of his career success to the Wiegele family, as they supported and encouraged both his apprenticeship and career. A familiar member of the community, Dylan has made a life for himself in Blue River. As well as being a genius in the kitchen, Dylan is also a dedicated hockey player and slots in ice time whenever he can. In fact, Dylan hopes to one day coach his own team. True to his name, Dylan’s favorite food is most anything from the sea, but his culinary specialties are his sauces, stocks and soups. So next time you’re in Blue River be sure to indulge in a great big bowl of Dylan’s soup du jour.
Although Dylan originally came to Blue River in 1997 to work as a logger, he found a different calling after only a year. Dylan realized logging just wasn’t in his blood and began a career as a chef the old fashion way – working as a dishwasher. In less than four years Dylan became head chef of the Saddle Mountain Restaurant. Dylan accredits much of his career success to the Wiegele family, as they supported and encouraged both his apprenticeship and career. A familiar member of the community, Dylan has made a life for himself in Blue River. As well as being a genius in the kitchen, Dylan is also a dedicated hockey player and slots in ice time whenever he can. In fact, Dylan hopes to one day coach his own team. True to his name, Dylan’s favorite food is most anything from the sea, but his culinary specialties are his sauces, stocks and soups. So next time you’re in Blue River be sure to indulge in a great big bowl of Dylan’s soup du jour.
Housekeeping Manager mmcneilage@wiegele.com It takes a dedicated and organized person to manage the housekeeping duties of resort of this size, and Maureen attributes her nine years of success to the pleasure she gets from working for the Resort. Maureen works full-time and enjoys her time off raising horses, camping and fishing with her husband of 28 years. Maureen possesses her mother’s strong work ethic as well as her positive outlook on life and looks forward to the day when she can spend all her time with her horses. Maureen’s keen eye and her staff’s attention to detail are appreciated by all guests at Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing.
It takes a dedicated and organized person to manage the housekeeping duties of resort of this size, and Maureen attributes her nine years of success to the pleasure she gets from working for the Resort. Maureen works full-time and enjoys her time off raising horses, camping and fishing with her husband of 28 years. Maureen possesses her mother’s strong work ethic as well as her positive outlook on life and looks forward to the day when she can spend all her time with her horses. Maureen’s keen eye and her staff’s attention to detail are appreciated by all guests at Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing.
Human Resources Manager jobs@wiegele.com What makes Cindy Byrd a great Human Resource Manager and a valuable asset to Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing is her belief that people are the heart of an organization. Cindy is passionate about empowering others, human rights, diversity and leadership. Her contribution in helping various organizations implement a range of successful initiatives including compensation, performance management, strategic human resource assessment, staffing and employee engagement is testament to her commitment and skill as a Human Resource Manager. Cindy spends time off in the summer hiking, mountain biking, and camping and enjoys snowboarding, cross country skiing, and snow shoeing in the winter. Cindy’s favorite quote by Anatole, “To accomplish great things we must not only act but also dream, not only plan but also believe” melds well with her commitment to lifelong long learning, wellness and living life adventurously. Cindy holds a Batchelor of Arts Degree in Sociology and a Post-Baccalaureate Degree in Human Resource Management from Thompson Rivers University as well as a Professional Designation as a Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP).
What makes Cindy Byrd a great Human Resource Manager and a valuable asset to Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing is her belief that people are the heart of an organization. Cindy is passionate about empowering others, human rights, diversity and leadership. Her contribution in helping various organizations implement a range of successful initiatives including compensation, performance management, strategic human resource assessment, staffing and employee engagement is testament to her commitment and skill as a Human Resource Manager. Cindy spends time off in the summer hiking, mountain biking, and camping and enjoys snowboarding, cross country skiing, and snow shoeing in the winter. Cindy’s favorite quote by Anatole, “To accomplish great things we must not only act but also dream, not only plan but also believe” melds well with her commitment to lifelong long learning, wellness and living life adventurously. Cindy holds a Batchelor of Arts Degree in Sociology and a Post-Baccalaureate Degree in Human Resource Management from Thompson Rivers University as well as a Professional Designation as a Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP).
Marketing Coordinator mmeerse@wiegele.com
Drawn to the world-renowned landscape and amazing staff at Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing, Michelle couldn’t pass up the opportunity to work in Blue River. Michelle possesses a strong drive, an unswayable need for independence, and a somewhat odd and quirky sense of humour. Inspired by her mother’s advice, Michelle believes that there is nothing you can’t do; only things you won’t do. Michelle loves to socialize and never misses the opportunity to get together with friends – often over a meal she has cooked. Michelle holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from Thompson Rivers University as well as a Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Marketing. Michelle looks forward to building her marketing career at Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing.
