Why is training essential for technicians?
CVW talks to BPW about why it believes training is essential to keeping the wheels of the transport industry turning and what it offers technicians.
Commercial vehicle workshops are currently confronted with a critical challenge, namely a shortage of qualified technicians that is posing a significant threat to the transport industry and jeopardising the efficiency and safety of commercial vehicles on our roads.
To address this issue, workshops must take proactive measures and invest in comprehensive training to ensure a steady supply of skilled workers to meet the demands of the industry.
The shortage of qualified technicians is a growing concern. The industry relies on the expertise of workshop technicians to maintain commercial vehicles. However, with an increasing number of experienced technicians retiring, and a shortfall of young professionals with the necessary skills, workshops are struggling to fill crucial positions. According to a survey conducted by Logistics UK, 54% of its members faced significant challenges when hiring fitters, technicians, and mechanics. This has not only impacted workshop productivity but compromised the safety and reliability of commercial vehicles, posing risks to both drivers and the public.
Technicians that are well trained help maximise fleet performance. BPW recognises the importance of training, and that BPW running gear is an investment worth protecting to ensure longevity, efficiency, and performance. If the equipment is properly maintained, fleet operators can also anticipate less downtime, longer service intervals and ultimately, greater profit.
That’s why it offers a highly rated axle and suspension service and maintenance course from a fully equipped training centre in Leicester. The one-day course includes modules on the patented BPW ECO hub system, drum and disc braking technology, self-steer axles and the full range of BPW suspension systems. Also included is practical, hands-on learning and information regarding diagnostic and replacement techniques. Delegates who successfully pass the course, leave having received quality training and can return confidently to their workplace safe in the knowledge they have been trained by experienced BPW engineers.
If you can’t make it to Leicester the company delivers the same high-level training course through a partnerships with GTG Training, based in Glasgow, Scotland and South East Regional College (SERC) in Lisburn, Northern Ireland. These external training partners are responsible for the BPW-Approved training course and ensure that customers in Scotland and Ireland have local access to the service and maintenance programme.
According to Michael Stayman, aftermarket and maintenance network manager at BPW the success of the BPW-approved course can be gauged by its popularity – over 3000 delegates have now been trained. “There is no official legislation in place for the training of trailer technicians, so in recent years, we have worked hard to establish a high standard of service and maintenance training that is now well-recognised within the industry.”
With a strong focus on reliability, safety, and compliance, BPW is more than just a supplier of equipment; it says it is a trusted partner. Its commitment to satisfaction extends far beyond sales, with ongoing support and training to ensure that customers get the most out of their running gear investment. By choosing BPW, fleet operators invest in a future where their vehicles are serviced and maintained to the highest standards, protecting their operations.
