Created by WheelTime for its network of some 200 independent truck service and parts providers, the Total Tech online training and ASE certification program is now also open to fleets and technical schools. The program will allow fleets without in-house training departments to help their shop personnel acquire the theory, applications and diagnostic skills needed to earn ASE certification as master medium and heavy-duty truck technicians.
ASE certification from the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence is considered the gold standard of skills assessment among technicians, requiring they pass a set of rigorous tests and recertify their skills every five years.
The new online training program can also be used as a pre- and post-employment assessment tool and by technical schools and community colleges to help students prepare for ASE testing, according to WheelTime.
The online program covers seven ASE certification testing areas for truck diagnostics and repair, including diesel engines, drivetrain, brakes, suspension and steering, electrical/electronic systems and preventive maintenance inspection.
There are three Total Tech components for each ASE testing area. Skills assessment for each individual ASE test area cost $24.95 per participant. The online training courses are $97.85 each per participant. And the ASE test preparation materials and guides for each area are $24.95 per participant.
“Top techs know that to remain strong they have to stay abreast of today’s accelerating developments,” said Mike Delaney, WheelTime president and CEO. “We know investment in continuous training will help WheelTime members attract and retain the best and the brightest. It’s a big industry and we’re happy to share. By making WheelTime University ‘Total Tech’ courses available to fleet shops, companies and schools, we can give techs coming into the industry a head start while raising standards overall.”
