EMILY CHILDS: PRO SKIER & HELICOPTER PILOT
PROFILE: Emily Childs
Words & Photos by Abby Cooper
You could describe Emily Childs as a pro skier and helicopter pilot - but I prefer to describe her as contagiously happy and extremely determined with graceful grit. If Emily puts her eyes on achieving something, there’s no doubt she’ll get it done. Her ambition makes her a role model to many up-and-coming females in both the ski and aviation world. The way Emily has always forged and continues to forge her own path with passion and hard work (the good old-fashioned way) while practicing compassion for all currently in pursuit is admirable and a testament to her values.
Troll Mountain Resort, 30 minutes outside of Quesnel BC was Emily’s childhood stomping grounds. Her grandparents immigrated from Norway in the 60’s and built the resort. Now run by her mom, it still has all the charm you’d hope. Steep runs, gladded trees, long t-bars and the best cinnamon buns around. The cozy lodge has a wood fireplace and it’s easy to imagine life as a young skier here.
Building a career as a professional skier, Emily has called a few places home over the years but is now settled in Squamish BC where she is able to pursue both of her careers as a helicopter pilot and skier. On a recent flight to the iconic Tantalus Range, we interviewed Emily.
When did you first jump in a helicopter? In 2017, I bought myself a half hour of flight time at a training school in Langley BC.
Was it love at first flight? Pretty much, it's a surreal feeling being able to float above the ground for the first time.
How did you decide to pursue your career as a pilot? I was pretty sure that was what I wanted to do, but it was a big commitment so it wasn't until 2 years after that initial flight I gathered up the courage (and funds) to go for it. Which worked out great in the end because, during those fundraising years, I went wildland firefighting where I met a pilot that helped land me my first job out of flight school.
Most stoked pilot career moment so far? There are a lot of great moments, some of my favourites are when you are landed somewhere far away and you shut the aircraft down and just get to enjoy the silence around you. I also had a pretty neat experience of doing a talk at a Women in Aviation event this past winter, it was a small group and I'm not much of a public speaker but it was a big step for me and I had so much fun sharing my experience with others.
As a female operating in two male-dominated spaces, any words of wisdom to share with aspiring females looking to jump in? Don't overthink it - there is space for you and try your best to keep a positive attitude and most often I've found I'm met with an overwhelmingly positive response. You will be met with challenges but nothing you can't overcome.
How do you balance your career as a skier and a pilot? They often complement each other quite well, meaning, flying work is a lot busier in the summer for myself and obviously skiing is a winter sport - but sometimes I definitely have to juggle. I've found being honest and open with people that are wanting your time is best. And I've been amazingly fortunate to work with the people I do, they are usually as excited as I am at the opportunities so that is huge.
How did skiing transition from a passion into a career? It was always my dream as a little kid to be a "pro skier" but as I got older life happens and I ended up on all sorts of different paths. It wasn't until about 25 or 26 I'd say the dream really came true for me. But I've always worked other jobs and I definitely continue to do so now.
How do your Xtratuf's fit into your day-to-day life? They are great for spring and fall flying jobs and for winter they are great for travelling, before and after ski boots + basically everything, I wear them all the time.
What are you up to next? Any big goals, sneaky film projects or anything of that nature? I'll be in this year's Matchstick ski movie coming out this fall as well as Teton Gravity's film for the first time. Coming up, nothing is set in stone but hoping to do some kind of short feature film like we did last year which is called How Did We Get Here? Presented by the North Face.
I think it’s safe to say Emily doesn’t see obstacles as roadblocks, but rather mountains to climb. She embodies “tuf” with grace and we are most definitely glued to following @emilyxchilds journey.
Follow Emily on Instagram to keep up with her adventures: @emilyxchilds