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Hickam Auto Hobby Center wins the Blue

  • Published
  • By Angie Jefferson
  • 15th Services Squadron
HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii --  The 15th Services Squadron Auto Hobby Center earned the highest honor any automobile repair facility can earn -- the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Blue Seal of Excellence. 

According to the ASE website, the Blue Seal of Excellence Recognition Program identifies establishments that have met ASE criteria. It is a recognition program for businesses striving to be the best, and willing to prove their commitment. 

To receive the blue seal, a repair center must meet and maintain the following: 

· At least 75 percent of the technicians performing diagnosis and repairs must be ASE certified, having at least two years of school, on-the-job experience or a combination of the two, and passing a comprehensive test administered by the ASE 

· At least one ASE-certified technician in every service offered
· Up-to-date and well-maintained equipment to perform those services 

· Each blue seal center is also retested and inspected annually to maintain its certification. 

After automotive knowledge tests, equipment inspections and certifications, the Auto Hobby Center earned the distinction in April 2007 of becoming the second in the Air Force to earn the blue seal. Patrick AFB is the only other Air Force installation to earn this honor. 

"Earning the ASE Blue Seal demonstrates to our customers that they can trust our work. They can feel confident in the service they receive and the knowledge we teach," said Andrew Martin, manager of the Auto Hobby Center. 

According to the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, Hickam Auto Hobby Center is the only military auto repair establishment in Hawaii that has achieved this recognition. "This is a big deal," said Frank Faria, Chief of the Community Support Flight. "They don't just give this away - you have to earn it. At our Auto Hobby Center, people can expect service with Aloha." 

According to Mr. Martin, the Hickam Auto Hobby Center offers a complete range of services. The Center is certified to make necessary repairs as well as provide expert advice and training to customers who prefer to do it themselves.