The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has joined forces with the Institute of Road Transport Engineers (IRTE) and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) to present The Technician Professional Development Conference, which is to be held on Wednesday 17 April 2013, on the IMechE premises in London.

The event, sponsored by Goodyear, will look at the creation of a professional career path for vehicle technicians, as well as considering the vital role they play, the problems generated by the relative lack of investment by many repairers over the last decade, and the design of future training and assessment pathways.

It will also consider technological challenges during 2013 – 2018 the need for industry collaboration and the benefits of reducing vehicle downtime.

FTA chief executive Theo de Pencier said: “Some vehicle operators are already experiencing excessive vehicle downtime due to a lack of higher-level engineers, emphasising the long overdue need to consult with the industry to provide a structured career path for premium technicians and fleet engineers. It is important to start recognising and valuing these skills when acquired.”

The collaboration between FTA, IMechE and IRTE is not new, as the three organisations have agreed to work together to establish a joint steering group with the aim of creating a career path for motivated and inspired technicians, and between them organised four industry consultation reviews during 2012.

FTA engineers are also involved with the IRTE Workshop Accreditation scheme, which provides a mark of quality assurance for maintenance providers.

FTA, IMechE or IRTE members can book their delegate places now online at www.fta.co.uk/events, where there is currently an ‘Early Bird’ offer available until the 28 February, at a price of £200 + VAT per member and £250 + VAT per non-member.