ITIA training courses for 2026 now open for booking
Irish Tyre Industry Association (ITIA) training courses for 2026 are now open for booking, reinforcing the association’s ongoing commitment to raising standards across the tyre industry through high-quality training and continuous professional development.
As the tyre and automotive sector continues to evolve—driven by advancing vehicle technologies, electrification, and higher customer expectations—training has never been more important.
For tyre technicians, professional training is essential not only for safe working practices and consumer confidence, but also for staff retention, motivation, and long-term career development.
Training, Safety and Workforce Development
Effective training plays a vital role in improving safety standards across the industry. Well-trained technicians are better equipped to identify risks, follow correct procedures, and adapt to new vehicle systems, including electric and hybrid technologies. This directly reduces the likelihood of workplace accidents and ensures a consistently high level of service for customers.
Training also supports businesses in addressing recruitment and retention challenges. Clear development pathways and recognised qualifications help position tyre fitting as a skilled profession with long-term career prospects. Investing in training demonstrates commitment to employees, helping them feel valued while improving morale, productivity, and loyalty.
Sue O’Neill, ITIA Chief Executive, says continuous professional development is central to building a resilient workforce: “Our industry, like many others, is facing recruitment challenges. To address this, we must create a supportive environment that encourages career progression for our employees. By providing the right training and development opportunities, we can help our members acquire the skills and knowledge they need to excel in their roles. This will not only make them feel more valued, but also boost morale and productivity, and reduce staff turnover.”
ITIA Tyre Technician Training Programme – (Commencing May 19 2026)
The ITIA Tyre Technician Training Programme remains a cornerstone of technician development in Ireland. Open to both members and non-members, the programme has been developed by the ITIA in association with Athlone Training Centre to ensure technicians deliver best-in-class service while meeting modern safety and technical standards.
The programme runs over three weeks, with participants attending two days per week. Throughout the course, technicians build a structured portfolio of certificates, culminating in the ITIA Approved Tyre Technician Certificate.
Modules Covered Include:
- Manual Handling & Safety Awareness
- Understanding the Wheel & Tyre
- Basic Steps for Removal and Fitting of Car Wheels
- Waste Management
- Customer Service
- Puncture Repair & TPMS Training
- Wheel Alignment
- Electric Propelled Vehicle Hazard Management
Commenting on the programme, O’Neill added: “As the automotive industry evolves with the introduction of new technologies and electric vehicles, customers are expecting higher levels of expertise in the service and management of their vehicles. To stay ahead of the competition, companies must remain up to date with innovation and understand the increasing complexity of modern vehicles.”
REACT – Roadside Emergency Action Concerning Technicians – April 16
The safety of commercial tyre technicians working at the roadside remains a critical concern. Technicians may be called out at any hour, in challenging weather conditions, to work on vehicles only metres from fast-moving traffic. Sadly, serious injuries and fatalities continue to occur each year in roadside working environments.
The REACT (Roadside Emergency Action Concerning Technicians) training scheme addresses these risks by equipping technicians with the knowledge and procedures required to operate safely in high-risk roadside situations. Developed in collaboration with the National Tyre Distributors Association (NTDA) in the UK, the programme includes content aligned with Irish legislation.
A dual licence allows technicians to work in both Ireland and the UK and is valid for five years. The course is suitable for technicians attending incidents on motorways, dual carriageways, and trunk roads, including those working with truck and light vehicle tyres. Demand for REACT training continues to be strong, and bookings for 2026 training dates are now open.
MentorsWork – Free Management Training for ITIA Members
In addition to its technical and safety-focused training programmes, the Irish Tyre Industry Association (ITIA) is reminding members of a valuable management and business development opportunity available through its collaboration with the Small Firms Association (SFA).
Through this partnership, ITIA members can access free places on the MentorsWork programme, delivered in partnership with Skillnet Ireland. This programme is ideally suited to business owners and senior managers who are focused on growing their business, strengthening leadership capability, and developing the skills of their team.
The MentorsWork programme is completely free of charge for eligible businesses. To apply, members simply need to contact the ITIA at info@itia to connect with the programme manager.
Why MentorsWork?
While technical training is essential for operational excellence and safety, strong management capability is equally critical to long-term business success. MentorsWork supports owners and managers in stepping back from day-to-day pressures to focus on strategy, people development, financial performance, and sustainable growth.
A key benefit of the programme is access to one-to-one mentoring, which many participants find invaluable in gaining fresh perspective, practical guidance, and confidence when making important business decisions.
Book Now for 2026
With technician safety, skills development, and staff retention firmly at the heart of the ITIA’s training strategy, the opening of 2026 course bookings provides an important opportunity for businesses to invest in their teams and strengthen their future workforce.
Further information on all ITIA training programmes is available at www.itia.ie or by emailing info@itia.ie