Ryder System recently announced the winners of its 2007 Top Technician Recognition Program. The title of “National Top Technician” was awarded to Michael Bogard of Neenah, Wis., along with keys to a new, fully loaded GMC pick-up truck. Christopher Barnett of Hebron, Ky. was the runner-up, and Jimmie Slusher of Gray, Tenn., finished in third place.
Ryder’s top seven technicians, who had advanced through earlier rounds, participated in a national competition that consisted of 10 rigorous, hands-on skill tests, including vehicle electronics, preventive maintenance and air conditioning. All seven finalists received cash prizes for their performance.
“For nearly 75 years, Ryder has been providing its customers with safe and reliable transportation solutions,” says Robert Sanchez, executive vice president of operations for U.S. Fleet Management Solutions. “Our team of technicians has been and continues to be a key component of our ability to help our customers operate safely with maximum uptime. We thank our technicians for their dedication and hard work, and congratulate our 2007 Top Tech winners.”
As a result of their success in the company’s internal recognition program, the group of seven will represent Team Ryder at the 2007 TMC SuperTech National Technician Skills Competition in Nashville, Tenn., beginning Sept. 24:
“Ryder takes great pride in its technicians and the quality of workmanship they provide to our customers,” says Ty Cross, vice president of maintenance for Miami-based Ryder. “These top-performing technicians have surpassed Ryder’s stringent operational and safety standards and have proven themselves to be among the nation’s ‘best of the best.’ I am honored that they are part of Team Ryder and proud to have them represent us at the 2007 TMC SuperTech.”
The Ryder Top Technician Recognition Program is an annual program designed to identify, recognize and reward Ryder’s top performing technicians. Technicians who are eligible to participate for the national award are selected from Ryder’s team of nearly 4,600 U.S.-based technicians. The program highlights the value Ryder places on its technicians, the importance of their technical training for ensuring quality maintenance of the company’s fleet of more than 165,000 vehicles and commitment to quality customer service for Ryder’s 16,000 customers. The criteria for this award include technical training qualifications, outstanding customer service performance and quality workmanship.
