It’s a shame that only 23 states last year issued proclamations honoring National Automotive Service Professionals Week. Especially when state governments and governors issue proclamations all the time. Some I agree are good causes, but others can be just to appease or pander to a certain group or organization.
For example, there are a number gratuitous proclamations on the books, including: 28 states that signed on designating April 10th as Siblings Day; states anointing the month of June as American Crafts Month, 14 states designating September as Youth Soccer Month, states honoring National Farmers Market Week in August and many others.
Now I’m sure those are respectable honoraries, but come on — not even half of the states have signed on to declare June 7-13 as National Automotive Service Professionals Week?
This is unfortunate, because technicians and service and repair shops provide millions in tax revenues to these states. And, technicians are a vital spoke in keeping our nation’s economy and industry rolling.
We know that this is one of the most important times in the history of automotive technicians — as automotive recalls have been the forefront of the news these days in the auto industry.
And, no one will dispute that the struggling economy is forcing people to hold onto their vehicles longer — creating an even bigger demand for service technicians to properly maintain an aging vehicle population.
According to Tim Zilke, ASE president and CEO, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) created National Automotive Service Professionals Week to acknowledge the skill and dedication of the men and women who service and maintain the highly complex vehicles upon which we depend so much for our day-to-day transportation.
“ASE is proud to help recognize these individuals for their commitment to their customers, their craft and the American economy,” Zilke said.
Trish Serratore, ASE Senior VP said the organization would once again push to have all 50 states recognize the outstanding work done by automotive professionals across the nation.
As in years past, ASE will provide a form letter and enlist the aid of local shop owners in each state to petition their respective governors to mark this special week.
And, I think this could also be a great classroom project for students in automotive technical schools. Especially since in the future, these students will one day be among those honored.
If you would like to make sure your state honors today’s technicians and mechanics, there is a website where you can access on-line links to all 50 governors. Just go to http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Governors.shtml and select your state to send a message to your governor.
Or, feel free to contact the staff at ASE to offer assistance in getting the word out. Visit http://www.asecert.org for more information.
