On a national basis, most shops have openings for technicians. The impact of this is interesting. In some cases, signing bonuses are being paid in an attempt to lure technicians away from their current employer. In others, compensation packages are being adjusted to attract and retain skilled professionals. Professional technicians are in high demand. Because they are computer-savvy and tuned in, technicians are better informed than ever, and are more aware of these industry issues and trends.
There is another part of the picture however. Due to the large number of job openings, even those applicants with limited skills and experience are finding it easier to gain employment in the vehicle service industry. While its true that everyone has to start somewhere, a way to differentiate professionals with proven skills, from those with less experience, is more important than ever.
Thats where ASE certification comes in. Going back to ASEs roots, the certification program was developed to do exactly thatgive the automotive professional an opportunity to prove that they possess knowledge of the skills necessary to perform vehicle repairs that meet industry standards. Thats correct, industry standards. A common statement made by non-certified technicians is: I dont need ASE to tell me that I know what Im doing. If you feel that way, please read on.
ASEs close involvement with the service industry is no accident. Technical-workshop committees determine the content of ASE exams, and these same committees even write the exam questions. Who makes up the committees? In case you havent guessed by now, service technology experts, from the industry segment that directly relates to the exam, convene for these important tasks. This occurs not only during test development, but during the regular test-update sessions, as well.
Because the passing scores are also determined by these technical-committee experts, successful completion of an ASE exam proves that you have met the industry-standard level of competence in that specialty service area. The requirement to recertify every five years allows you to demonstrate that you are staying current with technology. ASE is the avenue by which you can obtain industry verification of your job-skills knowledge, and therefore be recognized as a true professional.
Another common excuse for not taking ASE exams is: I dont test well. It is important to remember that ASE test questions are written by technicians, for technicians. In other words, they are written by individuals like you, who possess the same common sense and analytical skills required of a good technician. They think like you do. That, and the fact that the questions are based on job skills know-how, rather than theory, make the ASE questions a comfortable format for technicians. If not testing well is caused by language or reading issues, a reader-translator program is in place to assist in those areas.
Due to demand and supply, the professional vehicle service technician is positioned to receive the industry recognition they deserve, and the industry recognizes ASE certification as the important factor in demonstrating professional excellence. For general information on ASE, including how to register for the exams, visit our website at www.ase.com, or give us a call at 703-669-6600.
