Volvo Launches Exclusive S.A.F.E. Technician Training Program

    ROCKLEIGH, N.J., Jan. 25 Volvo technicians represent the
essence of Volvo's commitment to automotive performance, safety and driving
pleasure. Alongside a vehicle's owner, the highly trained Volvo technician is
the car's best caretaker. That's why the selection and training of Volvo
technicians is so critical.
    Volvo Cars of North America (VCNA) has recently teamed up with Universal
Technical Institute (UTI) to educate ambitious and talented graduate-level
technicians in Volvo technologies and systems.
    The new Service Automotive Factory Education (SAFE) program, which is
exclusive to Volvo, provides the latest in training to qualified applicants.
It offers a rare opportunity for an entry-level technician. Through SAFE the
candidate can earn in 16 weeks, training that places them three to five years
ahead of other entry-level technicians. And it provides the basis for
certification, along with other standards, as a Volvo Master Technician.
    SAFE is a direct response to the clear need for well-trained technicians.
For at least a decade, the automotive industry has experienced an increasing
gap between the number of service technicians needed and the number available.
Updated training was never more important than in this era of automotive
innovation. Rapid product launches, the introduction of network technology and
new repair methods place unprecedented demands on technicians. Volvo
recognizes that the essential need for highly qualified technicians will
continue to increase apace with elevated sales goals.
    "SAFE will create a pool of qualified technicians," said Frank Boylan,
Course Development Specialist, Volvo Cars of North America. "Its strength is
that by drawing upon a base of able students, SAFE instills the specialization
and rigorous training necessary to qualify as Volvo technicians."
    The first class of five students began instruction in Chicago on November
20th. In order to be accepted to the program, these students had to
demonstrate an outstanding record at their undergraduate program, agree to
periodic drug testing, be willing to relocate and agree to work exclusively
for a Volvo retailer for a minimum of six months. These students hail from New
York, Vermont and Illinois, and future classes will include students from
across the country.
    The program tries to match trainees with locations that excite them. "One
of the key factors of long-term success," said Boylan, "is getting these
technicians where they want to go."  Volvo works to connect the graduates with
retailers in the parts of the country they wish to live. "We want as much as
possible to create a long-term situation."
    VCNA and participating retailers are investing significant resources in
this program and are providing it tuition free for qualified students who
successfully complete the training and work at a Volvo retailer at least six
months. Volvo Retailers can even sponsor a student in the program, thereby
increasing the opportunity to hire intelligent and capable technicians from
their community.
    Boylan said Volvo intends to increase the program to at least two, 16-man
classes per day in Chicago alone. "We expect to grow the program at least to
200 students per year, and possibly as large as 400 in a year. Volvo retailers
have expressed a need for trained entry level technicians and VCNA is
committed to supporting this effort 100%."
    By building a committed, well-trained pool of technicians from the ground
up, Volvo can look forward to meeting the demands of its consumers for years
to come.