Jim Hutchison, a professor of chemistry and biochemistry at the University of Oregon, is inviting UO colleagues from across campus to join him in some extracurricular activity – as members of the Willamette Pass Ski Patrol.

Hutchison serves currently as assistant patrol director and training coordinator for the Willamette Pass patrol.

Ski tests will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 29, at the ski resort on Highway 58, but Hutchison says even those who are unavailable for the tests may find roles within the largely volunteer organization.

The patrol – an affiliate group of the National Ski Patrol – is made up of components including alpine patrollers, who offer first-responder aid and are responsible for transporting patients off the mountain; patrollers, who focus on first aid duties; and mountain hosts, whose positions are oriented toward customer service.

Only those seeking to be alpine patrollers are required to pass ski or snowboard tests, but Hutchison says the organization's training schedule will allow prospective members to take the tests next winter if they have strong interest in joining and are unable to attend Saturday's session.

Training requirements for patroller and alpine patroller candidates include a two-month, NSP-certified first aid course that is outdoor-oriented and roughly equivalent to basic emergency medical technician training.

More information about the ski patrol and the process of joining are available on its website, or email Hutchison with questions.

- from the UO Office of Public Affairs Communications