Beyond the Snow: Janine’s Journey in Avalanche Education
- VNTRbirds
- Nov 14
- 3 min read
Introducing VNTRbirds’ AIARE Course Leader, Mentor, and Backcountry Educator
For many adventurers, the backcountry is where the magic happens — endless powder, untracked lines, and the quiet beauty of snow-covered peaks. But with that beauty comes risk. Understanding avalanche terrain, weather, and snow science can mean the difference between a great day out and a dangerous one. At VNTRbirds, that knowledge begins with our AIARE Course Leader, Janine Prout — an educator, mentor, and lifelong student of the mountains.
Being an AIARE Course Leader is more than teaching avalanche safety. It’s a certification that goes beyond instructor-level — requiring years of field experience, leadership, and deep understanding of snow science. There are still very few women or femme-identifying individuals in this role within avalanche education, but Janine continues to carve her own track, inspiring others to follow.
Janine’s fascination with snow and avalanches began long before she ever taught a course. Working as a ski patroller and mountain guide, she gained confidence making decisions in avalanche terrain — and quickly realized she wanted to share that knowledge with others.
“I decided I wanted to be an avalanche educator to provide a positive experience for others getting into the industry,” she explains. “And, selfishly, to keep feeding my own fascination with avalanches and snow science.”
After completing her AIARE instructor training, Janine spent years shadowing other courses, gaining confidence and learning from mentors who helped her refine her approach. That dedication not only solidified her expertise but built the foundation for the inclusive, collaborative teaching style she’s known for today.
Teaching with Curiosity and Confidence
Janine’s teaching philosophy centers on experiential learning — creating a safe, low-consequence environment where students can practice communication, decision-making, and rescue skills.
“I encourage group members to be active participants,” she says. “It’s about building systems and checklists that help people make cognitive decisions while considering avalanche hazards and group dynamics.”
She believes avalanche safety education should feel empowering, not intimidating. By emphasizing teamwork, communication, and curiosity, Janine helps students replace fear with informed confidence — giving them the tools to make conscious decisions in complex terrain.
Janine giving students the space to take the lead and practice their decision making skills. P: Katie Young//@kaytii
Mentorship and Impact
Over the years, Janine has seen the tangible impact of her work — not only in her students’ improved backcountry skills but in their confidence as individuals.
“I’m particularly proud of the women and non-binary folks who’ve gone on to become professionals in the avalanche and snow science industry,” she shares. “I like to think that my role modeling showed them there’s a different way to approach this field.”
Her mentorship extends beyond the classroom. Within VNTRbirds, Janine plays a pivotal role as a guide for other instructors and as a mentor to participants who are just starting their avalanche education journey. Her commitment to inclusivity and encouragement continues to open doors for those who have historically been underrepresented in outdoor leadership roles.
Navigating a Changing Climate
With the realities of climate change already impacting snowpack and terrain conditions, Janine acknowledges that avalanche education must continue to evolve.
“I’ve noticed how south-facing aspects are becoming harder to predict,” she says. “The snow can turn too wet or develop hard-to-track micro facets.”
For her, this shifting environment underscores the importance of teaching students to be inquisitive, observant, and adaptable — to embrace uncertainty with curiosity rather than fear. “The discussion around probability and risk is broader now,” she adds. “We’re teaching people to think critically about the unknowns.”
A Life Beyond the Classroom
When she’s not leading avalanche courses, ski patrolling, or guiding, Janine slows down — spending time with her five-year-old daughter, gardening, mountain biking, or exploring rivers. Creative outlets like soap-making, sewing, and baking help her balance the intensity of winter work with calm, mindful moments.
And if she could choose one superpower? “I’d go back in time and be a better communicator — to react differently and be more inclusive.”
That kind of reflection sums up Janine perfectly: always learning, always growing, always
leading with empathy.
Looking Ahead
Janine dreams of exploring Switzerland’s Zermatt region someday — drawn to its iconic peaks and endless off-piste skiing. But for now, she’s focused on the mountains close to home, guiding others through their first avalanche courses and mentoring the next generation of educators.
Through her leadership and heart, Janine embodies what VNTRbirds stands for: empowerment through education, connection through mentorship, and safety through shared knowledge.
In a field still finding balance between technical expertise and human connection, Janine Prout shows that the best avalanche educators don’t just teach about snow — they teach how to trust yourself in it.