Trail Builder Job Helps Whitehorse Youth Build Recreation Career

As a youth growing up in Whitehorse, Jake Robertson has always loved hitting the area’s ski hills in the winter, and biking its trails in the summer. With a passion for sports, the high school student knew he wanted a career in recreation – but opportunities to gain hands-on experience in the sector were limited. 

“There are a few job options in the area, but not a lot,” he says, adding that he had been eyeing a job at the local non-profit ski hill, Mount Sima, for some time. “I wanted to work there in the summer on the trail crew for a few years but never had the chance.” 

That all changed in the summer of 2024 when Robertson was finally given the opportunity to work at the ski hill as a trail builder – a position made possible through the CPRA Green Jobs Initiative, which is funded by the Government of Canada’s Youth Employment Skills Strategy program. 

Mount Sima operates year-round, offering trails and other outdoor activities for residents and visitors. Throughout the summer, Robertson was responsible for maintaining the hill’s bike trails, repairing decks and platforms, and even chopping wood for the park’s end-of-summer glamping experience. 

His hard work and dedication earned him a place on staff beyond the summer, extending into the fall and winter of 2024 and early 2025. He easily transitioned into winter operations, assisting with snow making and terrain park maintenance.  

“He moved right into our winter operations seamlessly,” says Sam Oettli, general manager of Mount Sima. “It gave him an opportunity to continue to develop his skills and contribute even more to the hill.” 

As his employer, Oettli has seen first-hand the impact the role has had on Robertson. 

“He’s gained valuable knowledge in operations and trail maintenance, but more importantly, I’ve seen a big boost in his confidence,” Oettli says.  “He brings fresh perspectives and new ideas to the organization, and it’s great to see that growth.”. 

Oettli also emphasizes that the funding made it possible for the non-profit to hire a youth like Robertson – someone who already had a strong personal connection to the hill and a deep commitment to the role. 

“When this position came up, he was at the top of the list because we knew he had an interest in working here,” Oettli says. “Jake is an upstanding young man – he is a hard worker, takes direction really well, and was a great fit for our team.” 

For Robertson, the experience has been transformative. He’s gained a deep understanding of the work that goes into maintaining trails and ski hills – knowledge that has given him a solid foundation for a future career in recreation. 

Robertson’s journey is a powerful example of how the Green Jobs Initiative is opening doors for young people in northern communities, providing them hands-on experience and a direct path into the recreation sector. Through this opportunity, he not only gained essential technical skills—like equipment operation and trail maintenance—but also developed confidence, leadership, and a deeper connection to his community. Programs like Green Jobs don’t just provide employment; they spark passion, build futures, and strengthen local recreation spaces. For organizations looking to invest in the next generation of recreation leaders, this initiative is a game-changer.