For more than two decades, GM World Class Technician (WCT) status has been the highest recognition a GM service technician can earn. (Fig. 3) Established in 2004, the program recognizes technicians who have demonstrated a mastery of all vehicle systems. Coming in 2028, the program will implement several changes to address the latest advancements in the automotive industry.
Fig. 3
Technicians have the opportunity to become World Class Technicians in the Mechanical curriculum through the GM Service Technical College (STC) and ASE training programs. Technicians achieve their WCT status after satisfying the training requirements and earning the necessary certifications, which includes obtaining Master Technician Certification (MTC) in select areas.
Why the Change Now
The automotive industry looks nothing like it did in 2004. Back then, diesel engines were often found only in large trucks. In the years since, diesel powertrains have spread across the GM lineup — driving a demand for diesel training.
Electric vehicles have unfolded in a similar way. EVs were not part of the original training requirements. But today, Chevrolet is the #2 EV brand in the U.S.
Elevating the technical requirements of the program keeps World Class status aligned with the vehicles that technicians are actually repairing in the dealership and helps position them for what’s coming next.
Current Requirements Through 2027
Technicians achieve WCT status when they successfully complete eight of nine Master Technician Certifications in the Mechanical area, along with the accompanying ASE Certifications. (Fig 4) Technicians can choose to complete either Gasoline Engine Performance or Diesel Engine Performance along with seven mechanical-related certifications.
Current Master Certifications include:
- Engine Repair
- Electrical
- HVAC
- Brakes
- Steering/Suspension
- Automatic Transmission
- Manual Transmission/Drivetrain
- Diesel Engine Performance or Gasoline Engine Performance
Fig. 4
New Requirements in 2028
Starting in 2028, technicians will be required to have 10 of 10 Master Certifications, which will include:
- Engine Repair
- Electrical
- HVAC
- Brakes
- Steering/Suspension
- Automatic Transmission
- Manual Transmission/Drivetrain
- Engine Performance
- Diesel Engine Performance
- Advanced Technology Vehicle (EV)
Meeting the Requirements
Of the 2,545 service technicians currently holding GM World Class Technician status, 561 already meet the new requirements. Technicians who do not meet the requirements will have until January 1, 2028, to complete the necessary training.
Planning is already in place to meet the training demands expected in the three new certifications, including supporting prerequisite courses for EV and diesel courses.
Timelines
The timeline for implementing the new requirements is:
- December 31, 2027 – Current WCT requirements end
- January 1, 2028 – New WCT requirements begin
- March 31, 2028 – Technician Excellence new requirement deadline (All impacted 2028 incentive programs will be updated prior to their annual enrollment periods.)
- December 31, 2028 – Grace period ends
What’s Next
Training capacity is being expanded ahead of the deadline. Technicians should review their certification record and compare it against the new 10-of-10 list to identify any gaps — most commonly Advanced Technology Vehicle and Diesel Engine Performance — and plan ahead to complete the required courses to earn or maintain World Class Technician status. (Fig. 5)
Fig. 5
Look for more information to be released about the WCT changes as well as other technical training announcements as the deadlines draw near.
– Thanks to David Piper
