Skills and training 54 www.aftermarketonline.net SEPTEMBER 2024 Inspiring tomorrow’s automotive generation Students taking part in the Original Equipment Suppliers Aftermarket Association’s (OESAA) Academy Live training roadshow have praised the handson approach of the organisation’s members. OESAA Academy Live shows students and apprentices the different career opportunities available in the automotive sector, as well as illustrating existing and new technologies, products, tools, technical best practices, and diagnostics. Following events at Trafford College, Suffolk New College and Heat (hybrid electric automotive training) Blackburn College, OESAA caught-up with three students to ask about the impact these events could have on their studies and future careers. Jawad, from HEAT Blackburn College, highlighted VARTA’s battery presentation, in particular, saying it “opened our eyes and widened our knowledge about the different battery types, like AGM or EFB”. On whether he wants to forge a long-term career in the sector, Jawad said: “I think a lot of people think the automotive sector is just about oil changes —manual labour —but we’ve learned that there is so much skill and knowledge required.” At Suffolk New College, Malachi, a T-level engineering student, said: “I really enjoyed hearing about all the different aspects of engineering. It’s more than just the mechanical side; it’s about diagnostics and the future of automotive technology, like hydrogen vehicles and electric cars.” The exposure to various pathways within the automotive industry was particularly interesting to Malachi: “I was never aware of the diverse roles within the automotive sector until OESAA Academy Live. Bosch and Brembo opened my eyes to potential careers I hadn’t considered before.” OESAA hopes to inspire more apprentices and students during its next two events, scheduled to take place in October 2024. Visit oe-suppliers.org for more information about OESAA. Show time for student ambassadors Last June’s UK Garage & Bodyshop Event has been commended for its successful ‘Show Maker’ initiative as part of its participation in School of Thought’s Ambassador Programme, which saw 15 enthusiastic students gain invaluable work experience. The initiative reflects the event organiser’s commitment to supporting the next generation of automotive professionals, providing the students with a variety of tasks and roles throughout the show. As part of the programme, the students, wearing their distinctive Show Maker t-shirts, engaged with exhibitors, helped visitors, assisted in various operational aspects of the event, and gained first-hand experience in the automotive industry. Each student received a certificate of participation — a valuable addition to their CVs, highlighting their involvement in the event. Alex Jones, marketing director of Messe Frankfurt, organisers of the UK Garage & Bodyshop Event, said: “A huge thanks to Sandwell College for helping give these 15 students the chance to participate. All of the Show Makers were a valuable addition to the team, and I’d like to thank them for their support on behalf of Messe Frankfurt.” This initiative not only supports the students’ development, but also highlights the importance of bringing fresh talent into the industry, Jones said. The Show Makers taking part included Barry Alhassane, Akeel Ali, Ryan Bradshaw, Ebrima Ceesay, Connor Day, Marwan Hussein, Kelechil Ifendu, Rishab Langi, Prince-Armani Mbuyamb, Stephen Odiase, Sahil Pal, Callum Riley, Juan-Carlos Srango and Jasvir Singh. Dave Reece, School of Thought founder, said: “Attracting young talent into the industry is crucial to help plug the skills gap.” Contact Dave — dave@ready4work. uk — to get involved.
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