SJPI Acting Principal, Dr. Ian Drakes (right) accepting the donation of a Launch X413 diagnostic scanner from Chief Executive Officer of Trans-Tech Inc., Lloyd Brathwaite. (GP)
There is a demand for highly skilled and qualified mechanics and the Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology (SJPI) is meeting that need through its Motor Vehicle Engineering Programme, and with the help of a number of business partnerships.
The Institute recently received a donation of a Launch X413 diagnostic scanner, transmissions and engines from Trans-Tech Inc. during a presentation at the company’s Kendal Hill, Christ Church location.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Trans-Tech Inc., Lloyd Brathwaite, said the calibre of mechanics trained at the SJPI was such that they were always being recruited by companies in Canada and the United States, which left a dearth here at times.
“Barbadian technicians are deemed to be some of the best educated in the world. When you hear a guy has graduated from the Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology, they are always wanted anywhere in the world. So, that migration creates a demand for people coming into the automotive field with the correct tools and knowledge.
“The demand for diesel, transmission and hydraulic technicians is even more in the industry. I believe with this programme at the SJPI and the commitment I am seeing from the tutors and instructors that we should be able to put out an even better quality mechanic coming into the field,” the CEO stated.
Acting Principal of the SJPI, Dr. Ian Drakes, on accepting the donations, said partnerships like the one the institute had with Trans-Tech Inc. were very important in keeping students on the cutting-edge of technology and auto-mechanics.
“The national drive is for more improved emerging industries, we are moving into electric vehicles, for example. With the diagnostic testing, you have to move away from what we call the ‘almond tree mechanic’. This helps our instructors to deliver quality instruction to all of our learners, who will then become premier automotive mechanics in Barbados and the region. …. We really appreciate this donation and other donations from Mr. Brathwaite,” Dr. Drakes said.
Mr. Brathwaite noted that the diagnostic scanner had the latest software and would “mobilise” students into the automotive service industry. He explained that whereas diagnostics were done manually in the past, all conducted currently on vehicles must be done using computerised equipment.
He added that the scanner donated to the SJPI was one of the most advanced in the business and covered the full range of Japanese and European engines, transmission, chassis, ABS brake systems, as well as steering systems.