INKOM — For Pocatello residents Dana Olson and Pam Krumwiede, the key to encouraging more women to get out on the ski slopes is simple: skill improvement.

“The better you get, the more fun you have,” Krumwiede said.

To help other women build their skills and confidence on the slopes, Olson and Krumwiede will provide their expertise as instructors for the upcoming Women’s Edge program at the Pebble Creek Ski Area in Inkom.

Women’s Edge is a three-week instruction program geared to meet the needs of female skiers.

The lessons will run on Jan. 14, 21 and 28 from 1 to 3 p.m., followed by an Apres Ski Gathering featuring wine and cheeses.

A major reason women get involved with skiing in the first place is because of their families, said Olson and Krumwiede. In fact, both instructors got bit by the ski bug on family vacations during their childhood.

“I discovered the kids are always excited to see their moms skiing,” Krumwiede said. “The kids will even check in with their moms from time to time, even when mom is over on the bunny slope.”

But the instructors want to encourage women to make skiing a lifetime activity. That’s why the Women’s Edge program uses a more supportive and social approach to coaching and development.

“Some women learn better in a women’s group where there’s less outside pressure,” Olson said. “We encourage them to learn at their own rate and within their own comfort zone.”

The cost is $119, and includes the clinics, lift tickets and the Apres get-togethers after the lessons.

The cost is $94 for those with a season pass.

Barrie’s Ski and Sports will also provide complimentary demo skiing equipment during one of the sessions.

“The demo skies will be women-specific and are especially important for beginners so they can try out different types of equipment,” Olson said.

For more information or to make reservations, call Pebble Creek at 208-775-4452.

Another Women’s Edge program will be offered in February, with clinics to be held on Feb. 4, 11 and 18.

On Thursdays throughout the season at Pebble Creek, women can ski for $25.