Susie Tjossem and Nancy Waring Nottingham were two early creators of Vail Associates (VA) Children's Ski School programs. After VA was acquired by Apollo Management in 1997, Tjossem continued to innovate for Vail Resorts and ultimately served as Vice President of Sports and Recreation for Vail Resorts. Between 2007 and 2019, Tjossem served as the Executive Director of the Colorado Snowsports Museum and Hall of Fame in Vail. Tjossem also held seats on the Vail Planning and Environmental Commission and the Vail Town Council.