Chairlift Chat Series: Season 3 Episode 2
Building the Beginner Experience
Published April 14, 2026
In Season 3, Episode 2 of Chairlift Chat, Deer Valley President & COO Todd Bennett is joined by Cidney Judkins, Senior Manager of Ski School at Deer Valley, for a conversation about what it takes to create an exceptional beginner experience on the mountain.
From first turns to confidence-building progression, Cidney shares how Deer Valley approaches ski school, designs learning terrain, and supports new skiers of all ages. The discussion also touches on the role Ski School plays as Deer Valley continues to expand, ensuring that every guest, from first-timers to lifelong skiers, feels welcomed and set up for success.
As the 25/26 season comes to a close, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most important parts of the Deer Valley experience.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Short on time? Dive into our highlights at a glance!
THE EAST VILLAGE EXPANSION ELEVATES THE EXPERIENCE
Deer Valley’s new East Village and gondola unlock expanded terrain, improved access, and a fresh perspective on the mountain—marking a major evolution of the resort experience.
THE “GREEN MONSTER” CREATES A MILESTONE MOMENT
As the longest run in Utah, the Green Monster gives beginners a tangible goal and a sense of accomplishment, turning progression into a memorable experience.
STORYTELLING ENHANCES THE MOUNTAIN EXPERIENCE
New elements like Eddie the Moose and interactive features (QR codes, kids’ activities) add a narrative layer that deepens engagement, especially for families and younger guests.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY IS NOT A FEATURE, IT’S THE FOUNDATION
A core differentiator of Deer Valley is its commitment to families, with thoughtful programming, ski school excellence, and a resort-wide focus on creating seamless experiences for guests of all ages.
THE “DEER VALLEY DIFFERENCE” IS TRAINED AND REINFORCED
New staff are immersed in a culture of attention to detail, exceptional service, and genuine care through hands-on training, mentorship, and continuous support beyond onboarding.
INNOVATION COMES FROM CHALLENGES
Even during a difficult season, the team leaned into creativity—offering unique activations like gondola rides with hot chocolate and donuts—showing that guest experience remains the priority regardless of conditions.
TERRAIN VARIETY IS A KEY ADVANTAGE
Deer Valley offers a full spectrum of terrain—from beginner-friendly learning zones to advanced steeps—spread across the mountain, allowing guests to explore and progress without limitation.
DESIGNED FOR LEARNING, BUILT FOR FLOW
New beginner areas, better lift access, and thoughtfully designed facilities (including ski school integration) reduce friction and maximize time on snow, especially for younger guests.
rich-text, responsive-table
In Season 3, Episode 2 of Chairlift Chat, Deer Valley President & COO Todd Bennett is joined by Cidney Judkins, Senior Manager of Ski School at Deer Valley, for a conversation about what it takes to create an exceptional beginner experience on the mountain.
From first turns to confidence-building progression, Cidney shares how Deer Valley approaches ski school, designs learning terrain, and supports new skiers of all ages. The discussion also touches on the role Ski School plays as Deer Valley continues to expand, ensuring that every guest, from first-timers to lifelong skiers, feels welcomed and set up for success.
As the 25/26 season comes to a close, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most important parts of the Deer Valley experience.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Short on time? Dive into our highlights at a glance!
THE EAST VILLAGE EXPANSION ELEVATES THE EXPERIENCE
Deer Valley’s new East Village and gondola unlock expanded terrain, improved access, and a fresh perspective on the mountain—marking a major evolution of the resort experience.
THE “GREEN MONSTER” CREATES A MILESTONE MOMENT
As the longest run in Utah, the Green Monster gives beginners a tangible goal and a sense of accomplishment, turning progression into a memorable experience.
STORYTELLING ENHANCES THE MOUNTAIN EXPERIENCE
New elements like Eddie the Moose and interactive features (QR codes, kids’ activities) add a narrative layer that deepens engagement, especially for families and younger guests.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY IS NOT A FEATURE, IT’S THE FOUNDATION
A core differentiator of Deer Valley is its commitment to families, with thoughtful programming, ski school excellence, and a resort-wide focus on creating seamless experiences for guests of all ages.
THE “DEER VALLEY DIFFERENCE” IS TRAINED AND REINFORCED
New staff are immersed in a culture of attention to detail, exceptional service, and genuine care through hands-on training, mentorship, and continuous support beyond onboarding.
INNOVATION COMES FROM CHALLENGES
Even during a difficult season, the team leaned into creativity—offering unique activations like gondola rides with hot chocolate and donuts—showing that guest experience remains the priority regardless of conditions.
TERRAIN VARIETY IS A KEY ADVANTAGE
Deer Valley offers a full spectrum of terrain—from beginner-friendly learning zones to advanced steeps—spread across the mountain, allowing guests to explore and progress without limitation.
DESIGNED FOR LEARNING, BUILT FOR FLOW
New beginner areas, better lift access, and thoughtfully designed facilities (including ski school integration) reduce friction and maximize time on snow, especially for younger guests.
rich-text, responsive-table
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Chairlift Chat Series
Continue Exploring the Chairlift Chat Series:
S 1, Ep 1: Mountain Operations
S 1, Ep 2: Skier Services
S 1, Ep 3: Food & Beverage
S 1, Ep 4: Human Resources
S 1, Ep 5: History & Hospitality
S 2, Ep 1: Ski Patrol
S 2, Ep 2: Preserving Culture
S 3, Ep 2: Beginner Experience
S 1, Ep 1: Mountain Operations
S 1, Ep 2: Skier Services
S 1, Ep 3: Food & Beverage
S 1, Ep 4: Human Resources
S 1, Ep 5: History & Hospitality
S 2, Ep 1: Ski Patrol
S 2, Ep 2: Preserving Culture
S 3, Ep 2: Beginner Experience