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A winter with the Shape Academy
Shred-sessions, crew-life and job-perspectives: you can have it all!
09.01.2020

They are the first ones up on the mountain, equipped with shape tools and shovels, facing the elements, chasing one mission: creating the ultimate playground for all winter sports enthusiasts. That’s the daily business of the men and women from the Shape Academy – the biggest institution in the field of snow construction both in terms of training and concept creation worldwide. So, if you are eager to spending the winter in the mountains, if you are looking for new adventures and if you’re tough enough for some physical labor, this is your chance!

Here we would like to show you a Vimeo video.

‘Cause a few shred-days aren’t enough…

Let’s give an example: Lukas is the living proof that it’s possible to combine one’s favorite hobby and one’s job perfectly. He has been a shaper for three years now and has become a valuable member of the QParks Crew. Born in Northern Germany, he first couldn’t imagine gaining a professional foothold in the winter sports business. After all, his time in the mountains was limited to a few days of vacation per year. But then he heard about the Shape Academy. Now, he spends his winter creating sick shred features, shaping kickers and building creative jib-obstacles. And of course, there’s plenty of time to take some laps in the park and pursue his passion: shredding! I’m basically building my own playground!“, Lukas describes his job. “Of course, it’s a lot of work and sometimes it gets really exhausting. But the fact that I can spend the day on the mountain, together with a like-minded crew and knowing, that I can earn money with my favorite hobby, makes up for all the hard times.”

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Outdoor office vs. cubicle

But you don’t necessarily have to be a genuine freestyle enthusiast like Lukas, to become a part of the Shape Academy. After all, there’s a huge spectrum of winter sports facilities like the Funslopes, the Funcross and the structurally challenging Snowcastles, which are built and maintained by the Shape Academy. And sometimes it’s just the calm beauty of the mountains or the fact to have “the most beautiful workplace in the world”, that makes you choose this job, like Sabrina – Project Manager in a Funslope – explains. “I just couldn’t imagine sitting in a cubicle every day. I just wanted to go outside! So, I decided to take a timeout from my old job. Now I spend my days in the outdoor office – and there’s nothing that could possibly match up to that!” While talking about her dream job, she watches the sun set behind the majestic mountains. Yes, that’s part of the shaper life, too!

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Big toys for big boys

Even all those, crazy about heavy machinery and technical stuff can find their ideal job at the Shape Academy – namely in the cockpit of a snowcat. The men (and women!) in their PRINOTH snow groomers are the true heroes of the night. They are the ones who push huge amounts of snow and help bring the park in perfect shape. Without them, it would be impossible to build a snowpark for example. “It’s not just required to have an eye for the details, it’s also necessary to bring along some skills and to be willing to learn.” Roland knows what he’s talking about. It’s already his 10th season with the Shape Academy. Since then, a lot has happened for Roli. Now, he’s Head Operator and responsible for the training of the next generation of snowcat operators. Furthermore, he has become Regional Manager and coordinates several projects within the Shape Academy. Therefore, he’s a paramount example that the Shape Academy also provides unique career opportunities in the winter sports business.

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If you also want to turn your passion into your profession, join the Shape Academy! For more information and the official online application form, please visit www.shape-academy.com.

More Stuff

On Sunday, March 17, 2024, around 25 motivated riders from near and far once again showcased their skills and went all in at Shred Poker at Diedamskopf! The freestyle scene was gambling for chips in the Diedamspark, and to find out exactly how it went down at Shred Poker 2024, read on here:

What a PenkenBattle 2024: great riders, incredible runs and a great atmosphere despite the white-out conditions. Check out the recap now!

The past weekend at Mayrhofen's PenkenPark was characterized by pure competitive energy during the PenkenBattle 2024. Nearly 80 freeski and snowboard athletes gathered, creating an electrifying atmosphere.

On 02.03.2024 it's finally time again: All riders show off their best tricks in Pizol and compete for the coveted Shredpoker chips! This progression session is all about flawless freestyle, where all riders can show what they've got on a selected obstacle.

On 02.03.2024 it's finally time again: All riders show off their best tricks in Pizol and compete for the coveted Shredpoker chips! This progression session is all about flawless freestyle, where all riders can show what they've got on a selected obstacle.

It's that time again, the highly acclaimed Riderpark Coachings are back on the Pizol. On 2 dates, you can once again get valuable tips and tricks from professionals to improve your skillset. Age and rider level don't matter - our coaches adapt to the individual level and learning curve of the participants. There will be one freeski and one snowboard coach on site so that everyone gets their money's worth. Speaking of costs! The Riderpark coaching sessions are once again free of charge this year! All you need is a valid lift ticket for the day and you're in!

When: 17./24.02.2024; from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm

Progression is key! The Riderpark Coachings are also the perfect preparation for the Shredpoker Pizol. You better be there!