OAS Instructors 25/26 Guiding Principles for World Class Experiences

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This document reflects the collaborative work of our 2025 to 2026 Instructor Team as they developed a shared set of Guiding Principles. Our instructors are held to high standards as highly trained, thoughtful guides who bring respect, professionalism, and genuine care to every interaction. During a facilitated working session, instructors identified core values and then examined and challenged them to ensure they translate into real, day-to-day practice. The result is a set of principles that guide our work and support the creation of world-class experiences that are safe, joyful, and rooted in connection, trust, and shared experiences.

OAS Instructors will bring the following to create a world-class experience: 

  1. Respect and Appreciation

We create world-class experiences by honoring the dignity, independence, and humanity of every person we serve.
We bring this value to life by showing gratitude for the opportunities and privileges we share, recognizing each person’s effort, and approaching every interaction with humility. Through awareness, inclusion, and care, we build a culture where people feel seen, valued, and respected — on and off the mountain.

  1. Professionalism

We deliver world-class experiences through preparation, competence, and integrity in everything we do.
We live this value by showing up ready — safe, educated, and adaptable — with a commitment to accuracy, skill, and growth. Our professionalism reflects respect for our craft and our community, ensuring every guest, volunteer, and teammate experiences trust, consistency, and excellence.

  1. Fun and Positivity

We make experiences world-class by infusing play, humor, and joy into learning and connection.
We live this value by creating environments that are energizing, inclusive, and full of encouragement. By staying flexible, celebrating progress, and finding lightness even in challenges, we build confidence, retention, and a sense of shared adventure that keeps people coming back.

  1. Sonder (Connection and Awareness of Others)

We elevate experiences by recognizing that everyone carries their own story, challenges, and triumphs.
We live this value by meeting people where they are — with authenticity, patience, and empathy. Through intentional communication and genuine curiosity, we create connections that move beyond instruction to shared understanding, belonging, and human growth.