For the fifth consecutive year, Whistler Blackcomb was honored by the editors of “Canada’s Top 100 Employers” in an annual competition that recognizes employers offering the nation's best workplaces and programs for young people entering the work force. Okemo Mountain Resort and Stowe Mountain Resort both made the list of “Best Places to Work in Vermont” in the large-employer category.

Whistler Blackcomb offers a number of programs geared toward younger employees, including paid internships, mentorships, and co-op opportunities for students. Career development opportunities are also widely available as employees have unlimited access to The Learning Curve—an in-house training program that includes courses on conflict resolution, effective communication, and interview skills.

“Many of our higher level managers and senior leaders have been promoted over time from entry-level positions and have been with the company for several years,” said Joel Chevalier, vice president of employee experience at Whistler Blackcomb.

This is the third consecutive year Okemo has made the list of Best Places to Work in Vermont, which is compiled by a variety of business organizations including the Vermont Chamber of Commerce.

“At Okemo everything we do as a family business reflects our desire to support our employees in what they do,” said Okemo Mountain Resort co-owner and vice president Diane Mueller. “Every one of us is honored to receive this award for the third consecutive year.”

This is the second year Stowe has been recognized as one of Vermont’s top employers. The resort maintains that a healthy staff is a happy staff, and hosts an Annual Wellness Fair to that end. All employees are given pedometers for their walking program.

Stowe spokesperson Jeff Wise said, “This is a great honor. All Stowe Mountain Resort staff participate in Stowe Exceptional Service Training, providing them with the tools and confidence to provide guests with a high level of friendly and technically capable service across the resort.”