With ski industry equipment becoming more sophisticated, technicians need on-going training in maintenance of mechanical, electronic and hydraulic systems, according to executive director of the California Ski Industry Association (www.californiasnow.com) Bob Roberts. "Repairing high speed lifts, snow making and grooming equipment, and fleets of off-road vehicles now requires Mechatronics skills," said Roberts. "We are co-sponsoring a specialized training program with Sierra College in summer 2006 because we were impressed with the first class instructors and the practically-driven Mechatronics program. This partnership reinforces California’s leadership role in winter sports technical training."