Ford Service Training Institute Opened in Malaysia

With the technological leaps being made in automotive technology so frequently, the need for proper technical training has become even more critical. All manufacturers recognize this and while some still prefer to have their distributors send personnel overseas for training (a costly exercise), others like Ford regard it as a strategic investment to have a training facility in the country.

With this in mind, Ford Malaysia has set up a Ford Service Training Institute (FSTI) which provides formal training to Ford service personnel in Malaysia. The FSTI, located in the Ford Customer Service Department offices in Shah Alam, Selangor, has classrooms and state-of-the-art training and workshop facilities with the latest in diagnostic test equipment such as WDS (Ford’s Worldwide Diagnostic System) which can diagnose problems on any Ford vehicle as well as provide possible solutions to problems.

“The training institute is part of Ford’s ongoing efforts to improve the overall ownership experience for Ford customers. It is to ensure that all Ford technicians are fully qualified and with the relevant experience and expertise to deal with any customer complaint or need.” said T.H. Chong, Ford Malaysia’s Marketing Manager.

“Besides being a place of learning for our technicians, there will be many opportunities for FSTI to assist local training colleges, such as with the supply of surplus and warranty return vehicle components, provision of up-to date technical information and workshop manuals as well as having select college teachers attending FSTI training to boost their skills on new technology.

Mr Chong said that, over the next few months, Ford will be identifying key colleges to include in the support program and over time, this will lead to Ford-sponsored training programs in the colleges.

Under the FSTI banner, Ford’s technical training strategy endeavors to take students on a gradual learning curve that increases after various discipline facilitating training systems are in place. This strategy embraces the ‘3R’s concept’ of supporting Technician Recruitment, Recognition and Retention. Ford believes that to maintain customer satisfaction and loyalty, Ford dealers need to be staffed by well-trained, qualified and loyal technicians.

The FSTI will take Ford technicians through four distinct phases from recruitment to a Master’s Program. The duration of each phase can be up to a year and for the Master’s Program, technicians who have reached a level of competency will be called upon to participate in regular Ford new model and technology training that will enable them to move from the level of technician, to Senior and then Master Technician.