At 25 years old, apprentice Benson Cassidy, has taken the leap from the landscaping industry to automotive, and has learnt a few things along the way.
Benson Cassidy’s introduction to the repair industry started with a simple post on Facebook, and with a little bit of luck, he has landed on his feet as a second-year apprentice with Sheen Panel Group.
Leaving school halfway through Year 11, Benson has always been geared towards practical, and hands on work. Benson worked in landscaping for 8 years before switching gears and deciding on the automotive industry.
“Growing up I wanted to work with animals,” Benson says.
“But I had a growing interest in cars in my teenage years which took over. A lot of my friends were interested in cars as well, so it was nice to share the interest.”
Social media exposure
For Gen Z, the internet and social media play a key role in influencing career pathways. The exposure of different careers and the ability to be flexible and change directions has never been easier.
“Someone who I followed on social media was a panel beater. He posted videos of his work and I knew it was something I could do,” Benson says.
“The insight definitely encouraged me to pursue this career.”
No stranger to moving around and learning to adapt, Benson grew up all over Victoria. From Morwell, to Horsham, and Geelong, Benson has been from one side of Victoria to the next.
“In the first few months as an apprentice, I saw a range of jobs and would often watch the panel beaters complete their jobs,” Benson says.
“I knew I had a passion for the industry after I completed my first job.”
“From that point on, I was excited and driven to learn the larger and more complicated jobs.”
Breaking into new ground is testing for anyone, no matter the age or occupation. Benson overcame his challenges by leaning into the mentors in his workplace.
“At times in the beginning I kept second guessing myself and was doubtful as to whether I was completing my jobs fast enough,” Benson says.
“To overcome the second guessing, I asked for feedback from the head of panel beating and manager at the workshop.”
“He reassured me and reminded me that I am an apprentice, and it is all part of the learning experience.”
In the collision repair industry, having mentors and strong guidance is essential for encouraging the next generation to continue with their apprenticeship.
“The head panel beater and manager of Sheen Drysdale, Adam, has been instrumental in my apprenticeship journey,” Benson says.
“He has provided me with constant advice and support. He has been great.”
Manager praise
Benson’s manager, Tommie Baird, congratulated him on how far he had come since he first walked through the doors at the Drysdale workshop.
“Benson began working in my workshop as a very shy and reserved young adult. But he kept coming in everyday, starting early and finishing late on his own merit,” Baird says.
“He was always asking questions and listening when things were explained. To me this showed promising signs of a young adult who could one day be a very talented & knowledgeable panel technician.”
Baird outlined how Benson has taken advice and training all in his stride, showing dedication to his apprenticeship.
“Overall Bensons personality, work ethic, responsibility, respect, maturity, confidence, curiousness, willingness to learn and enthusiasm for this trade has made him not only a great team member but is making him an even better apprentice, and one day a great qualified Panel technician,” Baird says.
Favourite part of the industry
Benson’s favourite part of his apprenticeship so far is centred around soaking up all the information and expertise that he can.
“I love feeling satisfied when I see the final product,” Benson says.
“Seeing that the hard work has paid off is a great feeling.”
“Developing my existing skills and learning new ones is also a favourite part of my apprenticeship.”
When reflecting on the last two years in the industry, Benson highlights his biggest accomplishments.
“Fast tracking my apprenticeship has been a moment I am most proud of,” Benson says.
“Being nominated and in the top 6 for the Apprentice of the Year Award was pretty great too.”
The most important lesson Benson has learned is to remain positive when challenged.
“I remind myself to stay calm and not to get frustrated when you can’t get something right,” Benson says.
“When you let your emotions get the better of you, that’s when you make mistakes, and create more work.”
Aside from his apprenticeship, Benson has a keen interest in gardening, gaming and working on his own car.
“When I find the time outside of work, I enjoy repairing and modifying my own car,” Benson says.
Reaching the halfway mark this year, Benson is currently focussing on completing his apprenticeship.
“I’m focussing on fine tuning my skills,” Benson says.
“There is always more to learn.”