Training tailored to industry

A new automotive training course has been set up in response to industry demands.

The Auto Super Shoppes Academy in Albany is now running a three-month course with the aim of offering students employment at one of their workshops on graduation.

It kicked off with four founding students in their purpose-built workshop on July 17.

Auto Super Shoppes general manager Kellie Tremayne said the idea for the school came out of feedback from Auto Super Shoppes workshops for technicians who would be able to ‘‘be useful from day one’’.

Knowledge such as being able to service a car, as well as good work ethic and punctuality, were key skills, she said.

‘‘They need to be really confident in servicing a car, and putting a car up on a hoist and taking the wheels off.

‘‘Rather than learn how to strip down a alternator or starter motor, they need to know how to remove it and source a new one.’’

The 12-week course includes practical and theory components spread across 18 modules.

One day a week is also given to work experience in a local Auto Super Shoppes workshop.

Expectations of students are as they would be for employees, such as being expected to turn up at the school on time each day. Post-training job offers were dependent on graduation, Tremayne said.

With connections to BNT, Repco and Century Batteries, students also have access to the latest equipment, for example, in scan tools and wheel alignment.

The academy are also offering partial scholarships of up to $3000 to cover the $8600 training.

Alex Berry, 20, said he chose the course for its employment prospects and length.

‘‘It is really attractive, instead of going to a course and then you might not end up getting a job in the field.’’

Having already worked in an automotive environment, he said the new equipment was also an advantage.

Two further intakes are expected this year.