Jennings Motor Group, based in Northeast England, operates multiple Ford, Kia, Mazda and SEAT dealerships. The company uses a long-established apprenticeship program to provide opportunities for students in the region to work at its dealerships in service, sales and other divisions.
How long has Jennings service operation had the apprenticeship program in place? How does it work?
Bradford: We have had apprentices coming through the ranks in one form or another since Jennings became a motor dealer. Originally, the apprentices would be taken on in the more traditional areas of the business, for example, motor vehicle technicians and body technicians. However, over recent years, we have moved into taking on apprentices in the areas of sales, admin and accounts. We are currently working on a new program to manage apprentices better and move away from the more ad hoc way of recruitment.
What do you see as your key challenges in finding and retaining service technicians?
Johnston: Poor image of the motor trade. Less experienced technicians are available. A highly competitive market place.
Do you work with specific schools/colleges to find participants for the apprentice program?
Bradford: We have had a long working relationship with both Middlesbrough College in Teesside and Gateshead College in Tyne and Wear. We also use the manufacturer’s preferred apprentice providers, as well as recruiting direct.
What do you see as the biggest challenge in the service department?
Johnston: A shortage of experienced and qualified motor vehicle technicians. Skilled automotive technicians who are able to diagnose and repair the most difficult problems are becoming harder to find. Being fully committed to the apprenticeship program, however, is allowing us to appoint ambitious youngsters who are keen to learn the trade and become qualified motor vehicle technicians. On completion of the three-year program, these youngsters are also being given the opportunity to further progress their career and work their way up the ranks to the next level of senior technician and eventually to master technician status.
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