Amie Engerbretson is not just a name in the skiing world; she embodies the spirit of adventure, resilience, and creativity. Born and raised in Truckee, California, near the iconic Lake Tahoe, Amie's life has been intertwined with skiing from the very beginning. With a father who was a professional skier in the late '80s and '90s, her journey into the world of snow was almost predestined. Read on and tune into the latest episode of the Gnar Stool Podcast!
A Life on Skis
Amie's skiing journey began when she was just 10 months old, riding the rope tow at Palisades Tahoe. Her father, a passionate skier, introduced her to the slopes at an incredibly young age. Growing up, skiing was not just a hobby; it was a way of life. Amie recalls being so small that she had to use plastic skis strapped to her shoes, but her enthusiasm for skiing was evident even then.
Despite her early start, Amie found herself drawn to dance, particularly ballet. As she entered her teenage years, she faced a pivotal decision: to pursue skiing or dance. Ultimately, she chose dance, dedicating herself to it throughout high school and college. However, her love for skiing never waned, and she continued to hit the slopes whenever she could.
The Call of the Slopes
After completing her college education, Amie realized that her heart belonged to skiing. In a moment of clarity, she called her father and expressed her desire to return to Truckee, get sponsored, and pursue a career in skiing. To her delight, her father was incredibly supportive, excited to see her follow in his footsteps.
Amie's journey into professional skiing was not without its challenges. She quickly learned that being a great skier was only part of the equation. The industry was competitive, and she had to navigate the complexities of sponsorships, marketing, and the business side of skiing. With her background in media management, she was well-equipped to handle these challenges.
Breaking Barriers
As a female athlete in a male-dominated sport, Amie faced the realities of tokenism and gender disparity. She recognized that women in skiing were often underrepresented and underpaid compared to their male counterparts. However, she was determined to change that narrative. Amie worked hard to prove herself, not just as a skier but as a brand ambassador and advocate for women in the sport.
Her efforts paid off when she began to see more opportunities for women in skiing, including all-female projects and collaborations. Amie was part of the first wave of female skiers who showcased their talents in films and competitions, paving the way for future generations of women in the sport.
Creative Ventures
One of Amie's most notable projects is the short film "Boots Over Brim," which she released in 2021. This innovative film blends Western dance and skiing, showcasing her unique talents and creativity. The film features three different skiing scenes paired with various dance styles, highlighting the connection between movement on snow and dance.
Amie's father even made a cameo in the film, demonstrating their close bond and shared passion for both skiing and dance. The project was a labor of love, and it exemplified Amie's belief that skiing should be fun and expressive, not just about competition.
A Lasting Legacy
Today, Amie Engerbretson continues to inspire others through her skiing, creativity, and advocacy for women in sports. She remains a prominent figure in the skiing community, working with brands to promote better representation and equipment for female athletes. Her journey from a young girl on plastic skis to a professional skier and filmmaker is a testament to her dedication and passion.
As Amie often says, "I've never sat around and waited for the phone to ring." Her proactive approach to her career and her commitment to breaking barriers for women in skiing make her a true role model for aspiring athletes everywhere. Whether she's on the slopes or in the dance studio, Amie's spirit of adventure and creativity shines through, reminding us all to pursue our passions fearlessly.
