If you don’t already know what TMCSuperTech2007 is all about, you are missing a great opportunity to help your fleet run more efficiently.

Sponsored by the Technology and Maintenance Council (TMC) of ATA, the TMCSuperTech2007 is the  third-annual National Skills Com-petition designed to determine the industry’s top technician through a variety of troubleshooting tests over a two-day event.

Contestants will not only be tested on their hands-on skills, but also will also be asked to compete in the “written test challenge.” The written test consists of a multi-choice examination. Contestants will be given one hour to complete the test.

Contestants who qualify by passing the written exam will advance to the hands-on portion of the contest, where they will be tested in following 12 skill areas:

• Electrical #1
• Electrical #2
• Brakes 
• Steering
• Tire and Wheels
• PMI
• Wheel Ends
• Drivetrain
• HVAC 
• Service Information
• Writing Repair Orders 
• Engines

The winner of the TMCSuper-Tech2007 will receive an expense-paid trip to the 2008 Daytona 500 or Super Bowl, or equivalent, plus other prizes. Both the technician and employer will receive a trophy in recognition of winning the event.  Second- and third-place winners will also receive prizes, as will the “Best in Skills Category” winner.

 “So what’s in it for me?” That’s a question that most of you might be asking.

There are several reasons why you should enter your technicians. The most important reason is to demonstrate the value you place on your technicians and the work they do day in and day out. Without their skills, you would not be able to meet the demands of your job of managing your fleet’s equipment assets. Your qualified technicians make it possible for you to control costs, meet equipment demands by operations and affect whether or not your company can be profitable.

Even if your technician does not win the contest, you’re ahead of the game. First of all, they will have gained new knowledge by studying to enter and, second, because they will see the high level of skill it takes to win, and what it takes to be “Best of the Best.”

Time is short; the event will be held September 24 and 25 in Nashville, Tenn., and contestants must be entered by August 31. To get your registration forms, simply go to www.truckline.com/aboutata/-councils/tmc and download the form. Or, call TMC at (703) 38-1763.

We hope to see you and your technicians in Nashville.  

Bob Dorn,

Publisher