Bermudian tradespeople are being given a helping hand to get fully qualified thanks to a new scheme launched by Government.

The National Training Board's (NTB) meeting for automotive technicians last week to discuss the National Occupational Certification Programme, which comes into effect on August 31, proved to be a big success, with further meetings in the pipeline.

Among some of the other professions which will be discussed are the welding and electrician industries. Michael Stowe, executive director of the NTB, stressed the importance of getting Bermudians accredited in their appropriate trade through the introduction of the programme.

"I think first of all it is a significant move by Government to add value to the many trades and technical service workers and I think it is a benchmark as a standard that will receive recognition," he said.

"In a sense, for Bermuda it is overdue and certification for many of the technical worker services is an established process.

"The technical workers at the airport, for example, have to be certified in order to work on an aircraft, and it is the same for other trades — it will really bring people in line with the way things work elsewhere and what level of service people expect in Bermuda."

Mr. Stowe refuted suggestions that Bermuda is behind the times in terms of how long it has taken them to get their qualifications standards up to speed with other countries.

"I think that on two levels, first of all, many of the technical service workers in Bermuda are all equipped with good skills and competence and now the National Occupational Certification Programme is really in fact part of the process with the International Training Board Act passed in 1967 and the Certification Act of 2004, which has led us to where we are today," he said.

"That progression has been happening along a very good time line because these things can't be rushed into."Indeed, Mr. Stowe says many more occupations to be added to the meeting schedule.

"We can expect more occupations to be added to the list," he said. "We started with the automotive profession and we will add other occupations dependent on Government referral of the board and approval of the Minister."

The meeting for automotive technicians included introductions to the Occupational Advisory Board for the Automotive Technicians, along with a presentation from key members of the NTB including an overview of National Certification, the implementation and requirements of the National Occupational Certification Programme, along with information on how technician's will be assessed for levels of experience and skill sets.

Mr. Stowe added: "We have planned a series of Town Hall meetings for the tradespersons who will be the first to have the opportunity to apply for their National Certification.

"And this is our opportunity to have direct interaction them, ensure that everyone fully understands the benefits of the programme and so that we can answer any questions that they may have."

Next up is a meeting for electricians to be held at Bermuda Cathedral on Church Street, Hamilton tomorrow at 5.30 p.m.

For further details on the schedule of meetings call the National Training Board at 292-3700.