IAG has teamed up with AAPR’s Auto Industry Team, which includes some of our industry’s leading stakeholders, to recognise and support automotive repair businesses that support the collision repair industry and employ apprentices.
On behalf of IAG’s Supply Chain, Troy Johns said the Auto Scholarships program provides a unique platform and opportunity to support the collision repair industry, particularly as it aligns with IAG’s vision.
“The Auto Scholarship program supported by WorldSkills Australia, The SAPE Group and other key industry stakeholders, reflects our focus on supporting emerging talent, the future of vehicle repairs and the rapidly changing technology in the modern motor vehicle. It’s exciting and a great pleasure to congratulate our first recipient, Cessnock Smash Repairs and their apprentice Matt Brandt,” said Johns.
Matt has excelled in his field of Autobody Repairs, achieving a Gold Medal at the National World Skills Championships in 2018. Matt was also recognised as a Future Leader of the Industry and has spent six weeks in the USA on a “Big Brother” Mentoring program to broaden his skills in the industry.
Beau Knowles said: “The SAPE Group is committed to supporting and encouraging the next generation in the automotive repair industry and we have great pleasure to contribute and introduce the new GYS Heat Inductor, which is an innovative tool that will assist in repairs throughout the workshop. Congratulations to both Cessnock Smash Repairs and Matt Brandt”
Greg and Jennifer Gearing from Cessnock Smash Repairs have been in business for over 30 years, a family business supported by their two daughters and many long-standing employees. They have a large customer base in the community and give back by supporting local schools in their Work Placement programs every year. This year their goal is to complete the I- CAR Road to Gold training for the team and continue to move into the future of vehicle repair.
“We have great pleasure in accepting this award and would like to thank Troy Johns and the local Newcastle team from IAG, Greg Preston AAPR, Ian Vickery WorldSkills Australia, Adam McDonald TAFE NSW Glendale Campus and a special thanks to Beau Knowles from The SAPE Group, who supplied and contributed this great award. This will complement our high standards in auto repairs using innovative equipment which benefits our whole team and our customers,” concluded Jennifer Gearing.