8:58 am, June 30, 2008
PANEL technicians are driving a rapid expansion of Thatcham’s newly opened Automotive Academy.
The centre in Nuneaton, which only opened a few months ago, was originally opened to meet the Automotive Technician Accreditation demands of vehicle damage assessors. Now, similar thirst for ATA training of panel technicians has already led to calls for expansion.
It’s all down to the need for Kitemark certification – BSI Product Services predict up to 6000 technicians will need to be trained during 2008.
Hence, the opening of the new unit on September 1st. It will provide technical bays for four vehicles, with a six-person classroom alongside.
Ben Cardy, Thatcham’s quality and environmental systems manager, who was key in securing the new facility, said: ‘Technician accreditation through the ATA scheme is fundamental for businesses looking to achieve the Kitemark, and it is therefore essential that the facilities and expertise are in place to provide this service.’
