The ATA conducted its first in-person bow technician certification practical assessment June 14-15 in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania, and seven participants passed.
Kurt Smith, ATA’s director of industrial relations, evaluated the students along with Steve VanZile, director of the George Chapman Archery School, and recognized the achievement of all involved.
“This is an incredible milestone and achievement for the ATA and our first certified bow technicians,” said Smith. “We have received great feedback from members that this course helped them expand their knowledge and feel more confident in their abilities. Practice gives us the opportunity to see technicians applying the skills in a real world environment. Better yet, an industry certification tells customers that the technician is qualified and capable of providing exceptional service.”
Among the graduates was Casey McFadden, owner of RxArchery in Ohio. He found value in the course and is most comfortable working on clients’ arches.
“I have been in charge of the workshop for two years and I have no one to control my work,” he said. “Passing the course validates my skills as a bow technician. It’s good to know that what I’m doing is accurate and legitimate.”
McFadden found a renewed sense of confidence through the ATA Bow Technician Certification course. He has also learned new skills and is expanding the services he offers to customers, including things like adjusting the third axis of a bow sight.
The Bow Technician Certification course is ideal for bow technicians of all levels and years of experience. No matter how long you’ve been a bow technician, being certified validates your skills, adds credibility to your shop, reassures customers that you know what you’re doing, and sets your business apart from competitors.
Each graduate receives a bow technician certification certificate and signature for their shop, among other assets, to demonstrate that they have mastered bow technician skills.
With dozens of ATA members waiting their turn to take the in-person practice, the ATA is finalizing the details for upcoming testing opportunities in August, October, and December. Stay tuned for more information.
The ATA congratulates the first seven ATA Certified Bow Technicians and invites others to enroll in the ATA Bow Technician Certification course. Certification is a member-only benefit, so you must be a member to sign up. To register or learn more about the certification, click here. To become a member, go to www.archerytrade.org/membership.
Questions? Contact Kurt Smith, ATA Director of Industrial Relations, at [email protected].