12.17.2008
FALLS CHURCH, Va. — The Electronic Systems Professional Alliance (ESPA) created a technician marketing tool kit for employers of electronic systems technicians. The kit contains a sample letter, flyers, online banner ads, and fact sheets that employers can use to persuade their technicians to enhance their professionalism with training and certification.

“As business begins to slow in this down economy, now is the perfect time for employers to get their technicians trained and certified. It’s simply the best gift you can give them,” said Grant Mydland, executive director of ESPA. “By investing in your technicians, you’re showing them that you care about their career growth and you’re demonstrating to your customers that you demand the best from your technicians. This tool kit gives employers in-house marketing materials to get technicians started on the right path.”

Companies with certified technicians benefit from enhanced reputations, satisfied customers, productivity and professionalism, and a reduced turnover rate. Plus certification helps broaden the skills of current technicians, allowing companies to expand into different industry sectors in both residential and commercial markets.

The ESPA Certified-EST® tests a technician candidate's understanding of industry basics and is a true indicator of whether or not the technician is prepared for a career in electronics. ESPA certification provides the foundation for technicians in structured wiring, distributed audio and video, satellite, theater rooms, lighting, security and life safety systems and automation controls.

ESPA will launch its new one-day review course and certification exam at the 2009 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas next month. The ESPA review course will be held Saturday, January 10, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The exam runs that same day from 6-8 p.m. The ESPA Certified-EST® covers five key domains: electrical basics; tools; construction methods and materials; wiring and installation practices; and standards, codes, and safety practices. The review course is aimed at currently employed ESTs that need a refresher to help pass the exam. Candidates can find out more about the program at http://www.espa.org and register for the course and exam at http://www.cesweb.org.

Employers can download the technician marketing tool kit from ESPA’s home page at http://www.cesweb.org for free.