Training to be an automotive technician has one large monetary obstacle for many – tools. In addition to paying for training and certification, most name-brand car retailer employers also expect technicians to own their own set of repair tools. Combined, training and tools can cost upwards of $20,000.
The Volvo Technician Tool Program eliminates that cost by providing technicians free and permanent access to the tools they need to do their jobs.
Volvo Car USA has worked with Wurth Tools to assemble a 72-piece set of hand and cordless tools that will enable service techs to get off the ground with their career. Volvo estimates the tools will allow them to perform 80 percent of their jobs they would encounter at a certified Volvo Car Service Center.
Retailers are responsible for the tools and will replace missing and broken equipment.Photo courtesy of Volvo Car USA
Tools are organized and stored in a custom locking cabinet installed by the retailer, who is responsible for maintaining and replacing individual pieces.
“The Volvo Technician Tool Program (VTTP) addresses one of the biggest challenges facing the automotive industry: the need for more technicians,” said Scott Doering, Vice President, Customer Service at Volvo Car USA. “With this initiative, we see substantial value delivered to our retailer partners, especially given the nominal VTTP investment relative to the cost of recruiting or replacing a technician.”
“We have spent the last six months validating these toolsets in our in-house workshop and our technicians’ feedback has been resoundingly positive,” Doering said. “We expect retailers will feel the same.”
Earlier this year, Volvo announced a hiring initiative aimed at U.S. military veterans. The company’s Veteran Technician Careers Program U.S. military veterans as well as National Guard and Reserve members, for careers as Volvo Quality Level Technicians and Volvo Hybrid Specialists across its U.S. dealership network.
