MECP Honors Four Supporters at 2009 International CES
By Jack Cutts

On Friday, January 9, the MECP program honored four individuals that have gone above and beyond in their support of the MECP program. They have offered both their time and their talents to help spread the word about MECP and to help others prepare for and pass their MECP certification exams.

During the CEA Automotive Electronics Division reception at the 2009 International CES®, graciously sponsored by Dual Electronics, MECP Committee Chairman and long-time supporter Bob Fields (InstallerNet), the following individuals were honored across different categories:

Outstanding Rep Proctor
Rob Osheaski
Velocity Sales & Marketing
Chicago, IL

Outstanding Single-Store Retailer
John Samp
Abt Electronics
Glenview, IL

Outstanding Independent Multi-Store Retailer
Don Fleury
Creative Car Audio
Joplin, MO

Outstanding Training Partner
Gene Olvera
Mobile Technical Training
Hackensack, NJ

MECP caught up with award winner Rob Osheaski of Velocity Sales and Marketing to get his take on MECP and its role in the 12 volt world. Here's what he had to say:

MECP: What drives you to support MECP?

Osheaski: “Installers that have passed the MECP test have proven that they have installation experience and the ability to learn about new products. This brings credibility to the industry and shows a commitment to be a leader in the 12 volt industry. As a sales rep, I have noticed that MECP-certified installers are much more likely to solve problems that would have a less experienced installer calling me or a tech helpline.”

MECP: What would you say to a young 12 volt enthusiast who is wondering if MECP is right for them?

Osheaski: “MECP is the only universal certification recognized by everyone in the 12- volt industry. Anyone with an MECP certificate looking for a job in automotive electronics will have an advantage over other applicants. One thing taking the test teaches all of the installers is the importance of reading…sometimes I spend half my day answering questions from non-MECP certified installers. In many cases, the answers to these questions can be found in any owner’s manual.”