Training 46 www.aftermarketonline.net OCTOBER 2025 HELLA has welcomed two aspiring vehicle technicians from Banbury & Bicester College in Oxford for a work experience placement at its Banbury facility, providing valuable insight into the realities of working in the automotive aftermarket. Seventeen-year-olds Kayne Dancey-Brock and Luke Rowlinson, both studying for their Level 1 Certificate in Vehicle Maintenance, took part in a structured programme to expand their understanding of the industry. Their interest in HELLA was sparked during a college visit to the company’s Banbury site, which gave them a first glimpse into the scale and scope of the aftermarket. “We see great value in helping young people connect their learning with real-world career paths,” said Suzanne Plows, HR manager at HELLA UK. “Kayne and Luke showed real enthusiasm and curiosity across every department. It’s clear they’ve come away with a much broader understanding of how the aftermarket operates and how their future could fit into it.” The students gained first-hand insight into how different departments at HELLA contribute to the day-to-day operations of the automotive aftermarket. They spent time in the warehouse learning about logistics and stock control, before being introduced to the inner workings of product management. They also took part in live remote diagnostics sessions using Hella Gutmann’s macsRemote service, saw demonstrations of ADAS calibration, and explored HELLA’s product showroom to learn more about the company’s OE lighting and electronics solutions. “Remote diagnostics was amazing,” said Kayne. “I had no idea this level of tech was involved in car repairs. I thought remote diagnostics was just ringing someone for advice.” The students saw 22 live support tickets come through via the macsRemote service. The cases covered complex tasks such as key programming, airbag and ADAS calibrations from workshops across the UK, giving them a real-time view of the advanced diagnostics and technical support needed in today’s workshops. “It’s definitely widened my thoughts on what I can do in the future,” said Luke. “More businesses need to be open to supporting young people entering the trade, especially garages. We’re here to learn, we just need the opportunities.” While Luke has been fortunate to secure an apprenticeship at TWB Motors in Banbury, Kayne’s experience reflects a wider challenge faced by many young people seeking placements. With apprenticeship opportunities in high demand and limited supply, gaining hands-on training remains a significant hurdle for trainee technicians. UK truck and engine parts group Imexpart has reinforced its commitment to supporting future talent in the sector and the local community with a donation to Castleford College’s Motor Vehicle Student Awards 2025. As part of an initiative originally launched for ‘Random Act of Kindness Day’ earlier this year, IMEX’s marketing professional, Gina Watson, visited the college to present £250 worth of Love2shop vouchers. The vouchers were awarded to high-performing students in recognition of their achievements in motor vehicle studies. Watson said: “Supporting the next generation is vital to the long-term health of our sector. Today’s learners are tomorrow’s technicians, engineers and leaders — and we’re pleased to play a small part in their development.” Kayne Dancey-Brock and Luke Rowlinson on the macsRemote desk IMEX boost for automotive students Aftermarket insight for next generation
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