Alfa Romeo helps ATA reach 15,000th technician mark

Alfa Romeo technician, Sean Davidson, from Palmers dealership in Hemel Hempstead, has become the 15,000th technician to achieve the Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA) standard.

Sean started on the Alfa Romeo Apprenticeship Programme, part of Fiat Group Automobiles UK, in August 2007 and is currently in his third year working towards a qualification in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair. He achieved his accreditation at Service Maintenance Technician level at the technical centre in Slough.

To mark the milestone, Sean was presented not only with his ATA card but also £200 and a bottle of champagne to celebrate his achievement by Nigel Beaven, Head of Communications at the Institute of Motor Industry (IMI).

Andy Rowe, training director of the Fiat Group Automobiles Unetversity said: “We have launched products that set new standards and milestones in regards to the quality and appeal customers expect from our brands. In particular the Alfa MiTo has introduced new customers to Alfa Romeo, and we are dedicated to giving them the highest level of service they deserve from a prestige manufacturer. ATA is helping us reach our goals, and we are delighted to be part of the scheme”

With ATA, the Fiat Group Automobiles Unetversity Advanced Apprenticeship Programme installs core values of knowledge, behaviour and ability in its students - producing truly competent apprentices. FGA has produced over 450 accredited technicians in the past four years and is committed to supporting its network by creating industry professionals who deliver the highest standards of customer service across the board. The ATA scheme has become a vital step in the on-going development of FGA technicians.

Commenting on the milestone, Nigel Beaven said: “With 15,000 technicians having now achieved the ATA standard, this continues to show that our industry values national recognition of an individual’s current competence and integrity. It is valued by businesses and technicians alike and through ATA both are playing their part in raising standards to improve public perceptions of our sector.”

Since the public launch of ATA at the British International Motor Show in July 2008, the ‘You know you’re OK with ATA’ message has achieved a circulation of more than 30 million in the UK.

Motorists can search for their nearest business employing ATA registered technicians by going to okwithata.com