Sonic Tools USA has introduced its Sonic Pathway Program, an affordable method for automotive dealerships and repair and service centers to supply tools directly to its technicians with specialty pricing. From the moment a candidate is hired through to becoming a master technician, the tool costs are covered by the employer, and toolsets are upgraded as the technician rises in rank.
The Pathway Program starts with a 255-piece basic toolset and S12 XD Toolbox, available for $4,500. As the technician’s skill level grows, the employer can upgrade the set to the more comprehensive intermediate 456-piece toolset, for $1,750, and then, the advanced 672-piece toolset for an additional $3,250, to better match the needs and skill level of the technician. The program ensures that technicians don’t initially overbuy tools at the start of their respective careers, while also empowering them to affordably upgrade at the right time. It also removes one of the largest barriers to entry, the investment in a toolset, for new automotive trade school technician graduates.
“The standard way the automotive service and repair industry recruits and retains qualified automotive technicians is no longer sufficient to keep pace with demand,” said Colby McConnell, president, Sonic Tools USA. “In response, Sonic Tools created the Sonic Pathway Program to reimagine how automotive repair shops and dealers recruit and retain technicians. It starts with managers providing tools to workers that are appropriate for their respective skill levels, versus workers accruing additional debt by purchasing a toolset on their own—a major hurdle to bringing in the talent this industry desperately needs.”
Sonic Tools can be purchased online and shipped within days, instead of waiting for a truck each week, to provide the tools they need. The direct purchasing model also overcomes lost and non-billable time stemming from tool truck browsing and shopping. Furthermore, when shops purchase tools directly for technicians versus a signing bonus, technicians can exhibit more loyalty while the business enjoys additional tax advantages through capital equipment purchases.
“Many shops and dealerships have responded to the technician shortage by providing signing bonuses upon hiring, but this method falls short in building loyalty and truly supporting the technician workforce through their respective careers,” said McConnell. “Instead of a signing bonus, employers can provide a long-term career development support system, enabling them to reduce turnover and ultimately run faster and more efficient service bays.”
Sonic Tools features a lifetime, hassle-free warranty program. The online warranty process takes only two minutes to complete and new tools are shipped out typically within 48 hours.
