Brea, CA — Feb 12, 2009 — More than 60 percent of respondents to a recent online poll done by the International Automotive Technicians’ Network (iATN®), www.iatn.net, forecast an increase in business in 2009. Of the responses, 16 percent expect a dramatic increase, while 45 percent anticipate a slight increase. Business is expected to stay the same in 2009 for an additional 18 percent of respondents.

The poll was added to the members-only area of iATN on Jan. 5, 2009, and concluded with approximately 3,600 votes on Jan. 29, 2009.

“iATN members are confident and optimistic about their abilities to succeed even during tough economic conditions,” said Brent Black, iATN founder and president. “Plus, their membership in iATN gives them access to technical and management forums and resources that can help strengthen their businesses during good and bad times.”

Two previous online polls done in November and December 2008 demonstrate that many iATN members know how to manage through tough times. The November poll, which had approximately 3,800 participants, revealed that 22 percent of iATN members were still hiring technicians even though at the time, many businesses throughout the country were having layoffs. The December poll, which asked participants to compare 2008 to 2007 and had approximately 3,200 participants, showed that business increased significantly, slightly or stayed the same for 43 percent of members in 2008. Approximately 27 percent reported that business was off slightly in 2008.

iATN regularly conducts online polls of its membership that totals more than 65,000 members from 151 countries. Poll results are online at: http://www.iatn.net/press/surveys.html.

iATN is the largest online network of automotive repair professionals in the world with more than 65,000 members from 151 countries. The members of this group exchange technical knowledge with their peers around the globe, sharing over 1 million years of experience.

The iATN Mission of Excellence: To promote the continued growth, success and image of the professional automotive technician by providing a forum for the exchange of knowledge and the promotion of education, professionalism and integrity. For additional information about iATN, visit www.iatn.net.