Great Place to Work Employee Spotlight

Great Place to Work Spotlight: Kari Petrovics

What is your name, role title, and how long have you been with Sun Peaks Resort?

My name is Kari Petrovics. I am the Senior Payroll & Benefits Specialist and have both Payroll Compliance Professional (PCP) & Group Benefits Associate (GBA) qualifications. My first season was 2002-2003 and I came and went a few times throughout the first few years and by 2010 became a full time, permanent employee and resident of the community.

Which other roles have you carried with Sun Peaks Resort?

Throughout my time with Sun Peaks Resort, I have carried many titles, including Server with Food & Beverage, Retail Clerk, Administration Reception, Mountain Ops Assistant, and Accounts Receivable. I have been in the Payroll department since 2015 and earlier this year my title adjusted to Senior Payroll & Benefits Specialist, SPR & SPG.

What drew you to Sun Peaks initially?

My older brother started working at Sun Peaks in the ‘90s—doing everything from Events and Marketing, to helping build the Bike Park. He invited me up to spend a winter season working here and I never looked back. Two decades later, I’m still here, and Sun Peaks has truly become home.

How would you describe your experience with Sun Peaks Resort as an employer?

I’ve enjoyed how my role has evolved into one that provides a high level of employee service support. I like supporting our leaders and staff behind the scenes with administration, which in turn empowers them to deliver the best possible experience to one another and ultimately, to our guests. I manage everything from onboarding new team members into the payroll system to ensuring personnel details are accurate so everyone is paid correctly and on time. I also administer our extended benefits programs, making sure our team feels supported in all aspects of their employment and personal lives.

Sun Peaks has also supported my professional development, helping me earn both the Payroll Compliance Professional (PCP) and Group Benefits Associate (GBA) designations. This training ensures we’re processing payroll and benefits with accuracy and care, which contributes to a positive workplace for everyone.

What do you think has helped you the most during your time with Sun Peaks Resort, leading to your success in your role?

The biggest advantage in my success has been the unwavering support of the leaders within the company. Over the years, they’ve recognized my potential and encouraged me to step into new roles and pursue professional certifications. Their belief in me — and their willingness to invest in my growth — has made all the difference in my career journey.

Where do you hope to take your career?

The next step for me is to further my education by completing the full Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) designation. My goal is to use that knowledge to strengthen our extended benefits programs and enhance the other perks we offer to staff. It's important to me that our team feels supported and valued — both in and outside of the workplace.

What are the main reasons you have stayed working in Sun Peaks?

It’s been a real pleasure to be part of the team that has helped the company grow so much, so quickly. Being part of that journey has been incredibly rewarding — and honestly, really cool. I’m excited to see what the future holds and can’t wait to be part of the next chapter of growth for our organization.

What’s your favorite part of your job?

Honestly, it’s hitting the “process” button for payroll each pay period. I know it might sound a little corny, but paydays really are the best day of the week! It’s rewarding to know that I play a part in making sure our team gets paid accurately and on time — it feels good to be part of something that directly supports our staff.

How does working at Sun Peaks Resort complement your lifestyle?

I love that we get to work, play, and live in a place where the rest of the world comes to vacation. It’s a pretty unique career experience in a truly special part of the world. Being able to pop out for a ride break or a round of golf on a sunny afternoon isn’t a bad perk either!

Describe Sun Peaks Resort in three words.

Community. Home. Nature.

Great Place to Work Spotlight: Jen Dekkers

What is your name, role title, and how long have you been with Sun Peaks Resort? 

My name is Jennifer Dekkers. My current title is HR Business Partner, Sun Peaks Resort and Sun Peaks Grand, but I have carried many other titles in Sun Peaks throughout my time here. I have been with Sun Peaks Resort since 2001 and have been in the Human Resources (HR) department for roughly 15 years.

Which other roles have you carried at Sun Peaks?

I have carried many titles with Sun Peaks including Snowboard Instructor (Level 2) with Sports School, Retail Associate, Guest Services & Sports School Sales Desk Supervisor, Accounts Receivable Clerk, and Payroll Administrator. Then I moved into the HR & Staff Housing Coordinator role, which transitioned into HR Coordinator, and finally, HR Business Partner.

What drew you to Sun Peaks initially?

Back in 2001, I was initially drawn to Sun Peaks because it offered the flexibility I needed to work around my university class schedule. I also had friends working in Sports School who spoke highly of the community and the work environment, which made it an easy decision to join the team.

How would you describe your experience with Sun Peaks Resort as an employer? 

I would describe my experience as ever evolving. During my time with the HR department, I’ve seen both my role and the department grow into a more strategic function within the organization. This evolution has brought meaningful challenges and valuable development opportunities, both personally and professionally. It’s been rewarding to contribute to that growth and to be part of a team that continuously adapts to meeting the needs of the business.

What do you think has helped you the most during your time at Sun Peaks, giving you success in your role?

I’m very relationship-focused, both professionally and personally, and I believe that has been a key factor in my success at Sun Peaks. I value strong partnerships and know how to leverage those connections to move initiatives forward. In a workplace culture so rooted in teamwork, these relationships are essential to our collective success.

I’ve also been empowered to think creatively and find alternate solutions that fit the unique needs of our environment. Sun Peaks Resort (and Sun Peaks Grand) isn’t a one-size-fits-all organization, and being able to adapt and remain flexible has often led to solving not just the immediate issue but uncovering broader solutions along the way.

Where do you hope to take your career? (can be short term 1 to 5 years, or long term) 

I’m currently working toward my Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) designation, with a goal of completing it by 2026. Achieving this milestone will allow me to take on a stronger strategic role within the business and continue contributing to the organization at a higher level.

What are the main reasons you have stayed working in Sun Peaks?

I’ve stayed in Sun Peaks because of the continued success of both the business and our department, as well as the strong workplace culture. Sun Peaks has supported me through different stages of life, from a young professional to a working parent, and that flexibility has been key to maintaining balance between my career and family life. As the business has grown, so have the challenges, but that growth has also given me opportunities to think creatively, find solutions, and develop processes that better support the organization.

What’s your favorite part of your job? 

My favorite part of the job are the people that I get to work with—both internally across departments and externally with our partners. Building those relationships is incredibly rewarding. I’m also motivated by the unique environment we work in; there’s something special about being part of a resort community nestled in the mountains. The setting itself adds to the sense of purpose and satisfaction I feel in my role every day.

How does working in Sun Peaks complement your lifestyle? 

Although I don’t live in the community of Sun Peaks, I really value how much the Resort contributes to and shapes the community itself. Being part of a workplace that has such a strong presence and positive impact on the surrounding area is something I take pride in. The culture, values, and sense of connection here complement my lifestyle by aligning with my own priorities around community, balance, and meaningful work.

Describe Sun Peaks Resort in three words.

Sun Peaks Resort is best described in these three words: community, people, and growth.
 

Great Place to Work Employee Spotlight: Amy Whitty

What is your name, role title, and how long have you been with Sun Peaks Resort?

My name is Amy Whitty and I am a Millwright with the Lift Maintenance department. I have been with Sun Peaks Resort for just over a year. Before Sun Peaks, I was working at Revelstoke Mountain Resort where I did the other 3.5 years of my apprenticeship.

In which trade have you achieved your Red Seal certification?

I recently got my Millwright Red Seal certification.

What drew you to Sun Peaks Resort for your apprenticeship?

There were a few things that drew me to Sun Peaks Resort. Sun Peaks has a good reputation, it is large enough that it would challenge me with a variety of different lifts, and I knew someone that worked up here. It is hard to find apprenticeships within the Ski industry, so when the position became available, I was interested in applying for it.

What are some highlights from your apprenticeship you’d like to share?

I like that I get to learn and work on a variety of different chairlifts. Sun Peaks also gives its apprentices and staff more opportunities for leadership. The leaders in the Lift Maintenance department at Sun Peaks seek out the opinions from their apprentices. They listen to my ideas and want to hear what I am thinking even if the idea may not work out. This is different from my experiences in the past.

How would you describe your experience with Sun Peaks Resort as an employer?

My experience with Sun Peaks Resort has been good. Sun Peaks Resort has a good mix between feeling both corporate and family-friendly. Sun Peaks shows they care about safety and put it as a priority. I have a really good team – they have never once shown any concern with me being a young woman in the trades which is typically a field dominated by men.

What do you think has helped you the most with your success in your role?

The support from my family to keep pushing into the trades has been good. Even on my bad days, they kept pushing me. The Sun Peaks environment is also supportive. The Lift Maintenance department has the mentality that “The only stupid question is the one not asked”. They are always wanting to help you learn.

Where do you envision taking your career from here?

Since I was a teenager, I always knew I wanted to work in Lift Maintenance. I would like to move up in Lift Maintenance and would like to see a specific course on “Lift Maintenance Mechanics” be developed.

If there’s one thing you’d share with people thinking about entering an apprenticeship with Sun Peaks Resort, what would that be?

If you love the outdoors, aren’t scared of heights, and enjoy mechanical things, then a Millwright apprenticeship would be a good fit. The Lift Maintenance team at Sun Peaks is open to teaching you. Even the employees in ‘summer helper’ roles get things broken down and explained to them, if that is something they want.

How does working at Sun Peaks Resort complement your lifestyle?

I mountain bike and ski, and I used to ski race. Both me and my partner work here at Sun Peaks Resort and moved here together. I was actually born on a ski hill! My parents met while working at Whistler years ago. My whole family has worked in the ski resort industry and some still do. 

Great Place to Work Employee Spotlight: Riley Holowatiuk

What is your name, role title, and how long have you been with Sun Peaks Resort?

My name is Riley Holowatiuk and I am a Certified Journeyman Millwright. I have worked for Sun Peaks for over 6 years in a few roles – Lift Operations, Bike Trail Crew, Snowmaking, etc. All outdoor jobs.

In which trade have you achieved your Red Seal certification?

I completed my Millwright Red Seal certification.

What drew you to Sun Peaks Resort for your apprenticeship?

I grew up in Whitecroft, skiing and mountain biking in Sun Peaks all throughout my childhood. I was the Assistant Manager in Lift Operations when I saw the opening for the apprenticeship. I thought it would be a good career and would help me to stay in the ski industry long-term.

What are some highlights from your apprenticeship you’d like to share?

One highlight for me was when we got to change the haul rope on one of the lifts. That was cool. We also changed out the bearings on the bull wheel. Another thing I really like is the combined years of experience between the entire team. Five of the guys have been here for over 15 years. They know the lifts well and things run smoothly.

How would you describe your experience with Sun Peaks Resort as an employer?

Sun Peaks has been good as an employer. The supervisors have been really flexible and the department works hard to accommodate. Upper management is super friendly – everyone’s door is always open. The benefits are good too.

What do you think has helped you the most with your success in your role?

Trades are fairly individual – you have to be willing to learn if you want to be successful. The Lift Maintenance department has been good in supporting with my learning.

Where do you envision taking your career from here?

I like working with my hands and I want to do more learning in the trade.

If there’s one thing you’d share with people thinking about entering an apprenticeship with Sun Peaks Resort, what would that be?

I would say first join as a summer helper in a trades department and see if you like Sun Peaks. Then you know what to expect should you want to apply for an apprenticeship, and you’ll have already met the crew and department.

How does working at Sun Peaks Resort complement your lifestyle?

It’s great! Sun Peaks is super flexible. I snowboard, ski, and mountain bike so Sun Peaks is great for my lifestyle. It’s also great socially.