Over many years, James “Jimmie” Spencer was a driving force in fostering, strengthening and maturing winter sports in British Columbia. His efforts helped build B.C.’s ski industry into a well coordinated, economically important sector with a strong international reputation.

Under the leadership of Mr. Spencer, the Canada West Ski Areas Association played a significant role in this development. The association – which he led for 28 years – now stretches from B.C. to Manitoba.

Due largely to Mr. Spencer’s knowledge and experience in this sector, ski areas have been organized to work together in order to develop sustainability. He was an advocate for small ski and recreational areas and encouraged larger ski areas to assist smaller ones. He was instrumental in the development of industry-wide leadership and management programs, a code of ethics, and national safety and operational standards.

Mr. Spencer played a critical role in the support of Selkirk College’s Ski Resort Operations and Management Programs, and was involved with the development of the HeliCat Canada group of heli-skiing and cat-skiing operators.

Mr. Spencer worked closely with governments as the industry’s representative in negotiations for Crown lands acquired under B.C.’s Commercial Alpine Ski Policy. He was also closely involved with coordinating safety standards with governments.

Mr. Spencer contributed hugely toward making British Columbia’s ski industry a world leader, and in the process gained widespread respect as a leader, mentor, and advocate for skiing in B.C.