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Teaching skiing
POCATELLO -- Scott Rockwood became entranced by snow skiing at just 11 years old after watching a former Olympic medalist's exploits on television. More than 40 years later his love for the sport continues to endure.
"Jean-Claude Killy used to have a television program," Rockwood said of the French Olympian. "I was really interested in watching it." Rockwood, 56, who grew up in Idaho Falls, worked for AMI Semiconductor in Pocatello for 34 years as a process engineer. His was one of numerous positions cut when ON Semiconductor acquired AMI earlier this year.
He recently went back to his old digs, now operated by ON, as a line maintenance technician. Throughout most of his nearly 35 years working at Pocatello's lone semiconductor company, Rockwood also held a second job as a ski instructor, and for the past 19 years as director at the Winter Sports School located at the Pebble Creek Ski Area.
"I have taught at Pebble Creek for about 33 years," Rockwood said. "We teach all three disciplines. We have a very diverse program." The disciplines Rockwood spoke of include snowboarding, and Alpine and Nordic skiing.
Rockwood said he is the only member of his family who skis. At age 11 years, he had to convince his parents to let him take lessons. A year later, he was skiing competitively. "I started ski racing when I was 12 years old," he said. "I raced throughout high school."
Rockwood admitted he once harbored dreams of Olympic gold. "I think every young ski racer has Olympic aspirations as they begin racing," he said, "but then they realize that unless you're really, really good, you're probably not going to make the Olympics."
But continuing to teach skiing gives Rockwood a chance to remind himself about basic techniques to keep his own performance sharp, while also allowing him to share his passion for the sport. He's not sure when he will ever stop teaching. "The director prior to me is 80 years old and he is still teaching skiing. I would like to do this as long as I can," Rockwood said.
And now for the questions: ISJ: What's your favorite food?
Rockwood: My wife's roast beef with mashed potatoes and gravy. ISJ: If you could have dinner with one famous person, who would it be?
Rockwood: Robert Redford due to his many talents, his love of the outdoors, and his ownership and development of Sundance Ski area. ISJ: If you could choose a new career, what would it be? Rockwood: A fly fishing guide in the summer and a mountain guide in the winter. ISJ: Any regrets? Rockwood: None. Life has been great to me. ISJ: What's your favorite appliance? Rockwood: My Iron. I hate disheveled appearance. ISJ: What's your favorite sport? Rockwood: Do you have to ask -- Skiing of course! Bar None. A major part of my life. ISJ: What was the best day of your life? Rockwood: The day I married my wife. ISJ: The worst day? By Jimmy Hancock
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