iATN Helps Technicians

Scott Brown, administrator at the International Automotive Technicians' Network (iATN), spoke to ACC about how the Internet helps technicians. With the Internet, technicians can solve thorny car repair issues and address previously impossible problems while they are working.

iATN has over 26,000 active members. Its mission is "To promote the continued growth, success and image of the professional automotive technician by providing a forum for the exchange of knowledge and the promotion of education, professionalism and integrity."

The site features e-mail for members, Web forums, live conferencing, and original equipment technical content. iATN allows members to use images - graphs from diagnostic machines, for example - and text to communicate their message.

iATN members specialize in almost all parts of car repair, with the largest percentages focusing on computer/electronics systems, 12,377 members, and general repair, 12,957 members. All numbers cited are as of August 1999.

In addition to allowing mechanics to work out knotty problems together, iATN regularly does relational surveys, to determine a mechanic's influence, education preferences, tool usage and workplace benefits. iATN has grown exponentially since its inception, in February 1995, and sees a healthy future as it continues to make the technology of the Internet work for mechanics.

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