Andrew Baker is set to assume the role of president and CEO of Alpine Canada, succeeding Therese Brisson, who has moved on to become the CEO of Skate Canada after a six-year tenure. Baker, who previously worked at the Canadian Olympic Committee for 21 years, most recently serving as the COC’s chief external affairs officer, will officially join Alpine Canada in September.
Alpine Canada is responsible for overseeing alpine and Para alpine racing as well as ski cross, catering to approximately 15,000 registered racers and 5,500 coaches across 200 clubs nationwide, according to the organization’s 2025 annual report. Additionally, Alpine Canada hosts international World Cup races in Canada.
Upcoming events on Alpine Canada’s calendar include women’s giant slaloms in Mont-Tremblant, Que., scheduled for December, and a World Cup ski cross event set for March at Craigleith in Ontario. Baker’s appointment coincides with the commencement of preparations for the 2030 Winter Games in the French Alps.
The 43-year-old Montreal native played a key role in the COC’s advocacy efforts for increased core funding for national sport organizations. In April, the federal government announced a substantial injection of $755 million into high-performance sport over the next five years, with an annual commitment of $118 million thereafter. A significant portion of this funding, $660 million over five years and $110 million annually thereafter, is allocated to national sport organizations like Alpine Canada.
Reflecting on his new role, Baker expressed enthusiasm for the sport’s rich history and current excellence in alpine, ski cross, and Para alpine disciplines. He highlighted the importance of funding and support in enabling athletes to inspire future generations, emphasizing the exciting opportunities ahead for Canadian sports.
While ski cross falls under the freestyle ski category internationally, Alpine Canada oversees the sport domestically as a speed discipline. Looking ahead, Alpine Canada aims to build on its achievements outlined in the 2021-26 strategic plan, despite falling short of Olympic medals in alpine skiing and ski cross at the recent Milan Cortina Games. Canadian Para alpine athletes, however, secured a silver and four bronze medals in Italy.
As preparations shift towards the 2030 Winter Games, discussions are ongoing regarding the hosting of international sports events and the potential return of men’s speed races in Canada. The government’s continued investments in sports infrastructure and training centers, including upgrades at Panorama, Whistler, and Nakiska Ski Resort, are seen as crucial in nurturing a new generation of athletes for future success.
Baker remains optimistic about the prospects for Canadian athletes on the road to the 2030 Winter Games, buoyed by the recent government funding announcements that are expected to provide vital resources for athlete development and infrastructure enhancements.