Q: How many years have you been in the industry?
A: I have been involved with mobile electronics since I was 16, so 10 years now.
Q: How many years have you been MECP certified?
A: 5 years.
Q: How long did it take you to become a MECP certified Master Installation Technician?
A: The humorous answer would be… the time between completing the MECP Advanced Installation Technician Exam and passing the Master Installation Technician Exam… 6 months. More realistically, the knowledge that I have been accruing over the last 10 years (including college and an engineering degree) have provided me with the skill level needed to be a part of this program as a Master Installation Technician.
Q: What do you feel are the big challenges facing the industry?
A: The big challenge is finding a way to keep the aftermarket world alive in these new vehicles. New vehicles are becoming better equipped directly from the factory. This creates less need for the aftermarket components. In vehicles that are not fully equipped, the vehicles are more difficult to integrate, such as interfacing digital circuits or systems.
Q: What do you feel are the big challenges technicians face while working in the install bay?
A: The biggest challenge is not having the experience in dealing with these new types of systems or vehicles. Each new vehicle may need multiple interfaces which require a large inventory of stock to perform an installation that day.
Q: What are your comments about other installers who feel like the certification does not apply to them?
A: The MECP program is not only beneficial to our customers but also to the technicians. It is true, there is no replacement for real–life experience; however, backing a nationally-recognized program puts the customer more at ease with who is working on their vehicle. It is important to us, the installation technicians, as we should always strive to stay on top of new or emerging technologies and procedures which make us a better technician.
Q: In what areas of your current position do you feel like you excel? What are your strengths or skill–sets?
A: I would say that my biggest strength (and area that I like) is troubleshooting. Problem–solving is a big part of engineering and allows one to think about how a particular situation is occurring. It allows me to sometimes think outside the box.
Q: As a Master Installation Technician, have you benefited financially in regard to salary, incentives or growth at your current employer?
A: Although I cannot quote specific incentives for privacy reasons, I will say that there should be a wage increase based on the skill level and aptitude of one who has this specific certification. There has been some growth opportunities discussed within the company.
Q: As a result of your certification, do you feel you have job security or better job prospects?
A: Job security? Not necessarily, however the phrase “good help is hard to find” definitely applies. Better job prospects? I would say so. To future employers, this certification would tell them that I care about what I do, have the interest in this field and that I wish to build upon the skills and techniques that I have today.
Q: Do you actively promote your Master certification to your customers or retail audience? If so, how do your customers perceive you and your certification?
A: I am introduced by my management staff as “the only MASTER INSTALLATION TECHNICIAN in Pennsylvania,” and, for the most part, customers are in awe. I personally let my customers know my status; however, it is done in an educational manner. For my customers who know nothing of MECP, it gives me a chance to educate them on the program and introduce them to my fellow co–workers (and their certifications). This helps them feel more comfortable with my store. At my store, I have quite a bit of MECP–related information placed about so that customers can be aware of the program and myself.
Q: What is your favorite tool and why?
A: Good question. I would say my digital multi–meter. This tool is used anytime I need to troubleshoot an electrical problem. It is the first tool I go for when a particular project isn’t operating correctly. My next favorite (and a close second) would be a router, based on the creativity level of what can be done with one.
Q: What do you think of our terminology change from “Installer” to “Installation Technician”?
A: Any “back yard, do it yourselfer” could be considered an Installer; however, I am proud to have the title of Master Installation Technician and knowing that there are only a few of us around. |
