CV Show press day sees new Master Technician licence launched 08 April 2013

A Master Technician irtec licence, launched today [8 April 2013] at the Commercial Vehicle Show press day, is aimed at giving road transport technicians more opportunities for career progression.

irtec, the independent accreditation scheme for technicians, has developed a new top-level licence.

Up to now, technicians could be licensed through irtec at Service Maintenance, Inspection, and Advanced Technician levels.

Now, the addition of a Master Technician level, which has an emphasis on communication and high-level technical skills, will add more management potential.

The new licence was developed and trialled with input from operators, training organisations and members of IRTE (Institute of Road Transport Engineers), IMI (Institute of the Motor Industry), and IMI Awards.

FirstGroup technicians piloted the Bus & Coach route to Master Technician at irtec assessment centre The Manchester College.

Stressing the high level of technical abilities required by workshop engineers, Gary Crookes, engineering training manager at FirstGroup says: "The introduction of the irtec Master Technician licence will add another opportunity for career progression for our engineers, whilst benefitting our workshops through the higher skill base."

Scania technicians trialled the Large Commercial Vehicle route to Master Technician. Gary Power, retail service operations manager, says: "From an approval point of view, we wanted to back [Scania's master technician level] up with the irtec accreditation. [It] gives our customers the opportunity to see that we have licensed technicians, and our technicians independent recognition of their skills."

"The irtec Master Technician licence provides an aspirational career path for high-calibre technicians," states John Hay, accreditation development manager at the IMI.

"The high standard of competence required for the licence provides recognition and credibility for successful achievers," he continues.

Ian Chisholm, head of operations and communications at IRTE's umbrella organisation, SOE (Society of Operations Engineers), says: "The new Master Technician licence will now aid the top technicians in reaching the high levels of expertise they require in their day-to-day job."

Author
Brian Tinham

This material is protected by MA Business copyright
See Terms and Conditions.
One-off usage is permitted but bulk copying is not.
For multiple copies contact the sales team.