Can NPCs assist you in skill checks? the book says "Characters" but not "Player characters" I hope NPCs can help out or that tech servitor with a total Tech USe of 20% is worthless.

Yes. The RAW says characters, which means PC or NPCs.

Apart from Fate Points, there is no mechanical difference between PCs and NPCs.

They hit the nail on the head. Well put.

Cifer said:

And even then, powerful enemies might have some.