A promotion of the vehicle technician role in the haulage industry is underway following the signing of a memorandum of understanding by three major bodies.

The Freight Transport Association (FTA), the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) and the Institute of Road Transport Engineers have agreed to join forces to create a recognised career path for vehicle technicians in the UK.

FTA chief executive Theo de Pencier commented: "Some vehicle operators are already experiencing excessive vehicle downtime due to a lack of higher-level engineers, emphasising the … need to consult with the industry to provide a structured career path for premium technicians."

James Hobbs, director of marketing at IMechE, added that this agreement will help to develop and maintain the cutting-edge skills that are needed to ensure the stability of the UK's future transport infrastructure.

Earlier this month, the FTA gave its backing to haulage crime-fighting body TruckPol following the removal of funding for the national Police Intelligence Unit.

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Posted by Helen Wrigglesworth