Welcome to

The Central Division
of the
National Ski Patrol

Protecting the Slopes

Safety and Service in the Central Division

The Central Division of the National Ski Patrol (NSP) is committed to advancing safety and delivering high-quality emergency care within the mountain sports community. Serving ski areas and resorts throughout nine states in the United States, we work to ensure that every guest enjoys a safe and rewarding experience on the slopes. Our mission is to uphold the highest standards of outdoor emergency care and safety education. We prioritize continuous training and professional development for our patrollers, ensuring they are well-prepared to respond quickly and effectively in any emergency.

2025 NSP Board of Directors Election

It is election season in the National Ski Patrol!  Patrollers, Candidates, Physician Partners, Alumni and, starting this year, Host Members may cast their vote in the National Board Election. The election begins October 15th and ends December 1st at 4 pm MST.
  
This year’s election is for four positions on the National Board of Directors.  There are six candidates running for the four positions. 
To help you make an informed decision, the National Ski Patrol Division Directors are inviting you to attend two National Board Candidate Forums.
 
Note: If you are unable to attend, a recording of each forum will be posted on the national website.
September 22nd at 6pm MDT / 8pm EDT. 
This forum will focus on getting to know the candidates and why they are running for the Board. 
October 5th at 6pm MDT / 8pm, EDT.
This forum will delve into issues before the National Board and include questions from NSP members. 

Amanda Barnhart

William Cline

Sharon Friedel

Richard Pietrafesa

Michael Schons

Shelley Urben

Head over to the National Ski Patrol website to learn more about each of our candidates. Login and click on 2025 Board Elections.

Need to Know Now

The Most Wanted Info, All in One Place

Explore our most requested details at a glance. Whether you’re just browsing or ready to take action, these quick-access highlights get you where you want to go—fast.

Shred Safe, Ride Smart

Your Guide to Slope Safety Starts Here

Snow sports bring adrenaline, adventure, and amazing memories—but staying safe is key to keeping the fun going. Just like driving, knowing the rules and following smart practices can make all the difference.

This is why the National Ski Areas Association, along with ski resorts everywhere, is committed to helping you ride responsibly. Safety on the slopes is a team effort—yours included.

Sign up for the newsletter designed for Patrols and patrollers! 

Stay in the Loop

All the Dates, All in One Place

Find Region Calendars here!
photo of Dan Somalski in patrol uniform with clipboard in hand, snow around

Honoring a Legacy

The Dan Somalski Memorial Scholarship

The Central Division proudly supports a scholarship established in memory of an extraordinary friend, mentor, and patroller — the late Dan Somalski.

Dan dedicated over 25 years to uplifting others, both on the slopes and in life. As a Certified Patroller (#426) and a PSIA Alpine Level 3 Instructor, he was a legend in every sense—respected, admired, and always willing to lend a hand or share his knowledge.

To carry forward Dan’s spirit of mentorship and excellence, this scholarship was created to help ease the financial burden of patroller credentialing while encouraging others to grow, achieve, and lead—just as Dan did.

Eligibility:

Any patroller, who is a member in good standing of the National Ski Patrol and the Central Division, may apply for an educational grant. The intended activities include (a) any National Ski Patrol education or other programs or activities and (b) PSIA/AASI certification.