On Saturday, Vincent A. Tudela successfully defended his title after defeating Ronal Barredo, who was the first runner-up and Alex Victoria, the second runner-up.
Fred Cardinas, Atkins Kroll Inc. director of services for Toyota, said by winning the 3rd Annual Technician Skills Contest 2008, Tudela will represent Microl Corp. in the Asian regional skills contest in Singapore next month.
“This contest always keeps us motivated,” Tudela said, as he admitted he was a “little bit pressured” during the event.
This year’s contest was very challenging, he added, because technicians had to use Toyota’s Tech-Xtreme, a computerized diagnosing tool.
The contestants had to diagnose and rectify engine-starting problems, a defective power window system while performing drivetrain service and inspection.
Tudela, who has worked with Microl for eight and a half years now, received $200 gift certificate, a medal, a plaque and a wristwatch.
He will be joining the Assembly of Champions in Nagoya, Japan early next year.
Cardinas said this event involves the top Toyota technicians from all over the world and is held to recognize their achievements and skills.
The participants will have a chance to tour the Toyota museum, he said.
During Saturday’s contest, the technicians were required to complete three practical assignments with corresponding points awarded for proper procedures, accuracy of diagnosis, degree of assignment completion and care of customer’s car.
The judges were Jesse Munoz, Emir Abuan and Allen Moses.
Brennan said Tudela, Barredo and Victoria topped the training and written examination taken by the eight technicians of Microl.
“This annual contest showcases the top technicians of our Toyota service department,” Brennan said. “It promotes professionalism of our service technicians and is a measure of their technical skill and know-how.”
He said the contest also “builds trust and respect in Saipan’s small but very competitive automotive industry which in turn allows us to satisfy our customers’ needs with the service they expect and deserve.”
