Citation
(2006), "Assessment system launched for vehicle technicians", Industrial and Commercial Training, Vol. 38 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/ict.2006.03738aab.009
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2006, Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Assessment system launched for vehicle technicians
More than 1,000 vehicle mechanics have signed up for the UK’s first national voluntary assessment system for technicians, Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA).
Developed over three years, the accreditation serves as a national benchmark of competence for technicians, who work on increasingly complex vehicles. A modern family saloon contains more computing power than the space programme the early 1960s.
To achieve ATA status, technicians must pass a series of practical tasks and an online knowledge test at an ATA approved assessment center. There are three levels of accreditation – service-maintenance technician, diagnostic technician and master technician. ATA-registered technicians are issued with a photo identity card and are listed on a web-based register. They must be reassessed after five years to maintain their credentials.
Governed by the Institute of the Motor Industry, the automotive sector’s professional association, Automotive Technician Accreditation is backed by major partners including BMW, DaimlerChrysler, Ford, Hertz, Mondial Assistance, Nationwide Autocentres, Peugeot, Toyota, Volkswagen, Volvo and Unipart. ATA also has the support of the government, trading-standards authorities and Which?, the new name for the Consumer Association.
The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) is the professional association for individuals working in all sectors of the motor industry, with a membership of 25,000. Its role is to improve standards through the qualification and continuing professional development of individuals. Commenting on Automotive Technician Accreditation, Sarah Sillars, IMI chief executive, said: “ATA clearly identifies proven current competence, which is as important to consumers as it is to businesses seeking qualified technicians. The level of support within the motor industry would suggest that at least 50 per cent of businesses involved in vehicle servicing and repair nationwide will be actively supporting ATA within the next five years.”