Developing a career path for UK transport technicians 24 January 2013

The Freight Transport Association (FTA), the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) and IRTE (Institute of Road Transport Engineers) have established a working group to create a career path for UK transport technicians.

With rapid advancements in vehicle technology, and Euro 6 engines becoming mainstream for all new commercial vehicles from the end of 2013, training and assessment of technicians is vital, say the partners.

However, they are concerned that there is currently a lack of training options available for technicians and fleet engineers maintaining high-tech commercial vehicles.

To tackle this career progression problem, the three organisations are to consult with industry throughout this year, with the aim of producing an agreed technical syllabus that is not only relevant to current industry needs but also prepares technicians and managers for future advances in technology.

The syllabus will also provide a pathway to registration with the Engineering Council, also addressing the current shortage of registered engineering technicians (EngTech) and incorporated engineers (IEng) in the transport sector.

"IRTE is proud to work with FTA and IMechE on this joint initiative that will directly benefit the industry and provide a path for technicians to develop their careers," comments Nick Jones, chief executive of IRTE's umbrella organisation, the Society of Operations Engineers (SOE).

"The evolving skills of technicians are crucial in creating efficient and environmentally sustainable commercial vehicle maintenance," he continues.

"It is imperative we, as representatives of engineering professionals, provide the platforms to enable our technicians to continue their vital work."

The three organisations held focus group meetings during 2012, resulting in the Technician Professional Development Conference, which will take place on 17 April 2013 in Westminster.

Jones says that the conference will act as a forum for recognising and discussing the problems facing technicians and industry so that they can be addressed by the working group.

Prices for the event are £225 for FTA, IMechE and IRTE members and £275 for non-members.

Early bird rates of £200 per member and £250 per non-member are available until 28 February 2013.

To book your place go to www.fta.co.uk/events/technician_debate.html or call 08717 112222.

Author
John Challen

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