Update on Programs

Automotive Service Technician (AST)

The review of the AST program outline, including the exam bank, was completed and submitted to the ITA for approval in the fourth quarter. This is a major program that affects 1,275 employers and 2,359 apprentices, or 69% of apprentices in automotive trades.

Parts and Warehousing Program

The revised Parts & Warehousing program, which amalgamates three trades into two final trade designations (one of which is a Red Seal trade), was approved by the ITA Board. The learning resources, class plans and exam bank are being developed by BCIT, Malaspina College, Thompson Rivers University and Kwantlen College. It is expected to be completed for delivery in fall 2008.

Automotive Upholstery Program

Program revision and development is progressing at a moderate rate as there is no defined apprenticeship training on which to base the new curriculum. Currently, the program is offered only as an ELTT (not a Foundation program) Support is still strong from industry, however, and significant results are expected during the first half of the new fiscal year.

Automotive Glass Installer Program

The revision of the Glass Installer Program began in the fourth quarter of 2008 and revision to the outline is expected within the first quarter of 2008. Exam bank development will begin in the second quarter.

Motorcycle Mechanic Program

One of the challenges of a Motorcycle Mechanic program is that it has a very small number of apprentices. Site visits have been made with employers and the possibility of increasing the scope of the program to include outdoor power equipment is still being explored.

Automotive Service Advisor Program

In response to the enthusiasm of industry for an Automotive Service Advisory Program, a Letter of Intent to create a new program, Automotive Service Advisor, was submitted to the ITA and program development funding was provided. Work has continued through the year, both in forums and with individual industry participants, and in March a proposal was presented to the ITA for approval. Upon approval, work will begin on program outlines, exam banks and designing a pilot project.