Andrew Baker is set to take the reins as the incoming president and CEO of Alpine Canada, following the departure of Therese Brisson, who has moved on to lead Skate Canada after a six-year tenure. With a background of 21 years at the Canadian Olympic Committee, Baker most recently served as the COC’s chief external affairs officer before joining Alpine Canada in September.
Alpine Canada is responsible for overseeing alpine and Para alpine racing as well as ski cross, with approximately 15,000 registered racers and 5,500 coaches across 200 clubs nationwide, according to the organization’s 2025 annual report. The organization also manages international World Cup races held in Canada.
Notable upcoming events include two women’s giant slaloms scheduled for Mont-Tremblant, Que., in December and a World Cup ski cross event set for March at Craigleith in Ontario. Baker’s arrival at Alpine Canada coincides with the commencement of preparations for the 2030 Winter Games in the French Alps.
Having played a key role in advocating for increased core funding for national sport organizations during his time at the COC, Baker expressed enthusiasm for the future of Canadian sports following the federal government’s commitment of $755 million over the next five years, with a subsequent annual allocation of $118 million.
While addressing the need for continued development and support in sports, Baker highlighted the history of excellence within alpine, ski cross, and Para alpine disciplines. Despite Canada’s performance at the recent Milan Cortina Games, where the country did not secure any Olympic medals in alpine skiing and ski cross, Baker emphasized the ongoing commitment to enhancing results and supporting athletes on their journey to inspire the next generation.
Looking ahead to 2030, efforts are underway to revitalize men’s speed races domestically, with potential venues in Whistler or Panorama, B.C., being considered as replacements for the discontinued World Cup races in Lake Louise, Alta. Additional funding has been allocated for hosting international sports events and upgrading training centers in preparation for upcoming competitions.
Baker remains optimistic about the future of Canadian athletes, citing the recent government funding announcements as a significant boost for athlete development and infrastructure enhancements leading up to the 2030 Winter Games in the French Alps.