The Technology & Maintenance Council announced it will host a nationwide skills competition to test technician skills in diagnosing and repairing major vehicle systems.

The competition will coincide with the TMC 2005 Fall Meeting, Sept. 19-22, at the Valley Forge Convention Plaza, Valley Forge, Pa., and will be open to TMC technician members and winners of competitions held by state maintenance councils.
A pre-test is expected screen competitors to a maximum of 50. The pre-test may be made available at the TMC web site.
Plans call for up to 10 "skill stations" to test skills on different vehicle systems. Test topics will include: Electrical & Starting-Charging System; Foundation Brakes & ABS; HVAC; Steering, Suspension & Tires; PMI; Engines & Driveability; Written Test; Drivetrain; and Service Information.
Test content will be based on recently revised medium and heavy duty truck maintenance training standards from the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation.
According to TMC general chairman and development committee member Mike Jeffress, TMC is permitting limited sponsorship for this event, which is slated to become a regular feature of TMC fall meetings.
Vehicle, part, component and tool manufacturers will have the opportunity to contribute to test development, provide testing materials and provide financial support for particular skill stations. Sponsorships will also be sought for prizes and for scholarships that will enable technicians to take time away from work to travel to the competition.
The objective of TMC's Professional Technician Development Committee is to create and develop ongoing training standards and training opportunities for truck technicians, and to enhance the professional image of the truck maintenance industry.
For more information, visit http://tmc.truckline.com