Andrew Baker is set to take over as the new president and CEO of Alpine Canada, succeeding Therese Brisson, who has moved on to lead Skate Canada after six years in the position. Baker, who has a 21-year background at the Canadian Olympic Committee, most recently serving as the COC’s chief external affairs officer, will commence his role at Alpine Canada in September.
Alpine Canada manages alpine and Para alpine racing as well as ski cross, with approximately 15,000 registered racers and 5,500 coaches in 200 clubs nationwide, as reported in the organization’s 2025 annual report. Additionally, Alpine Canada hosts international World Cup races in Canada.
Upcoming events include two women’s giant slaloms in Mont-Tremblant, Quebec, in December and a World Cup ski cross in March at Craigleith, Ontario. Baker’s arrival coincides with the beginning of preparations for the 2030 Winter Games in the French Alps.
Baker, a 43-year-old from Montreal, played a key role in the COC’s advocacy efforts for increased core funding for national sport organizations. The federal government recently announced a $755 million injection into high-performance sports over the next five years, with $660 million allocated to national sport organizations like Alpine Canada.
Expressing enthusiasm for his new role, Baker highlighted the storied excellence in alpine sports and the potential for further success in the disciplines of alpine, ski cross, and Para alpine. He emphasized the importance of funding and support for athletes to inspire the next generation and bring potential to fruition.
Despite meeting its world championship and Olympic/Paralympic medal targets, Canada experienced a medal drought in alpine skiing and ski cross at the Milan Cortina Games. However, Canadian Para alpine athletes secured a silver and four bronze medals in Italy.
Looking ahead, plans are in motion for potential replacements for discontinued World Cup races, with discussions ongoing for a men’s speed race on the West Coast. Government funding commitments have been made to support international sports events and upgrade training centers, signaling a positive trajectory for Canadian athletes heading into the 2030 Winter Games.