Twenty skilled technicians from Shenyang, capital city of northeastern China's Liaoning Province, were given the title of "chief technicians" on Friday for their outstanding skills and contributions. This is the first time for Shenyang to give out such a title.

These chief technicians were selected from 84 establishments and corporations under the governance of the city's national defense system, according to a report from the website of China National Radio.

The city's industrial labor union provides a monthly subsidy of 200 yuan to each of them for the one-year qualification term. Some may receive an annual salary of up to 100,000 yuan.

Also, they will enjoy priority in taking important missions and for promotions.

The selection of these technicians does not rely on their educational background or length of employment. If they master the necessary skills and can be a good teacher and helper for other colleagues, they have the opportunity to be selected as a chief technician.

The head of Shenyang trade union said that this measure aims to create a favorable work environment, and to encourage employees in doing technical research.

Most of these title winning technicians are young people between age thirty to forty, with one of them being only twenty-six-year old. Among them, four female technicians were also listed.

The website of China News Service reported that by the end of last year, twelve establishments under the city's national defense system encouraged their employees through implementing the "chief technician" and "employee rating" systems.

(Xinhua News Agency April 12, 2008)