NEW ULM, MN — On June 3, the Archery Trade Association participated in Scheels Archery Tech University, a weeklong training program that brings together Scheels archery technicians from locations across the country. Participants spent time further developing their skills under the guidance of industry experts and manufacturer representatives.

For the first time in program history, Scheels students also took part in the ATA Bow Technician Certification program. Before arriving on-site, they completed online coursework. During the in-person session, students demonstrated their skills by completing a hands-on practical assessment, which required participants to perform a full bow setup, including string and cable changes, cam timing, accessory installation and finishing with a successful paper tune.

Designed to raise the standard across the country, ATA's Bow Technician Certification ensures technicians have the knowledge and ability to confidently service compound, crossbow and recurve bows. The practical assessment is intentionally challenging, ensuring only qualified technicians earn their certification. At this event, 24 of 26 bow technicians passed the assessment on their first attempt, closely aligning with the program’s 95% pass rate. This brings the ATA’s total number of certified compound bow technicians to 154 and 28 for crossbow technicians.

Scheels’ decision to include the ATA Bow Technician Certification program reflects their commitment to providing customers with high-quality, standardized service in every store. Leading manufacturers like Mathews and FeraDyne Outdoors have also endorsed ATA’s certification program as a foundational requirement for new retailers interested in selling their archery products.

Visit the ATA Bow Technician Certification program, available to both members and nonmembers, to learn more, view upcoming assessment dates and enroll. Attending the 2026 ATA Show? This is also a great opportunity to complete the practical assessment, while reducing travel expenses. Space is limited, so register early to reserve your spot.

For questions about the program or upcoming practicals, contact Kurt Smith, ATA’s director of industry relations, at kurtsmith@archerytrade.org.