The annual event is a great way for automotive instructors to earn credit hours for National Automotive Teachers Education Foundation (NATEF) certifications, said Warren Tech Instructor Kelly Hebert. In order to maintain NATEF certification, instructors must earn 20 credits per year to maintain certification, he added. 

The four technical seminars included a course on ASE and NATEF certifications, presented by Skip Saurman of Megatech Corp.; an alignment training class taught by Mark Prosyth of Snap-on; Bonding Metal to Other Materials taught by Allen Squire of Specialized Products Supply; and Christian Meyer of Goodheart-Wilcox Publisher informed instructors about education materials for auto technology programs.

"More and more, I'm going to schools where the first-aid policy is not to touch a student but to call 911 or a school nurse," Saurman said during his presentation.  "Safety is really big with NATEF."  For example, eye protection procedures must be outlined, he said, warning that a school can be denied NATEF certification if procedures are not in place.

During the CATS business meeting, the group gave an update on their new Web site, www.coloats.com, designed to streamline communication between its members, Hebert said.  The site is also intended to create more visibility to potential employers, he said.

During the meeting, it was announced that Greg Romer, American Honda's west central zone manager of parts and service, will again be the mechanical chairman for the annual SkillsUSA competition, scheduled April 16-17 at Warren Tech.  Last year Romer replaced longtime Chair Scott Rill, service manager for Burt Toyota.

"It's my way of giving back to young students aspiring to get in the industry," Romer said, who will coordinate more than 40 individuals from 20 organizations.  "From a personal standpoint, I was once in their shoes.  It's gratifying to work with young kids looking to get a start in the industry."

Another new face to the group is Tony Raymond, the new Colorado state director for SkillsUSA, Hebert said.  Raymond replaces former Director Ben Nesbitt.

Instructors also had the opportunity to talk with several vendors exhibiting wares from tools and equipment to training materials, Hebert said.  They included Snap-on, Matco Tools, High Country Technology Consultants, McGee Co., Mark Gibson & Co., Western Shop & Equipment, Swis Automotive Equipment & Supply (AES), and Goodheart-Wilcox Publisher.