Igniting a passion for automotive and electronics
Mark’s journey into the automotive sector was shaped by his early exposure to hands-on experiences and work opportunities during his secondary school years. His father’s involvement in automotive repair work instilled in him a fascination for mechanics and electronics from a young age.
From building pushbikes and go karts, to taking radios and televisions to pieces, electronics was like a dark magic, intriguing Mark and leading him to take GCSEs in physics and technology. Creating circuit boards became a typical afternoon at school!
This interest in automotive technology led him to pursue work experience opportunities offered by his secondary school. At the age of 16, Mark participated in two distinct programmes: a 10-week placement and a week-long placement, both focusing on auto electrical work.
Work Experience
During the 10-week placement, Mark worked with a father-son team at a small auto electrical company. Here, he gained practical experience in stripping alternators and starter motors, cleaning and testing components and familiarising himself with the intricacies of auto electrical systems.
The subsequent week-long placement took Mark to another garage, also operated by a father-son duo. Here, he showcased his knowledge and skills acquired from his previous experience, impressing the owners with his understanding of components and diagnostic techniques. This placement provided him with exposure to engine running faults and the use of diagnostic machines.
Mark’s exemplary performance during his work experience placements led to offers for post-16 Youth Training Scheme placements from both companies. This recognition affirmed his potential in the automotive sector and fuelled his determination to pursue a career in auto electrical work.
In addition to his school-arranged placements, Mark seized an opportunity facilitated by his father to spend a week at one of Derby’s largest auto electrical companies. This experience exposed him to a broader range of tasks, from engine management testing to alarm installations and car phone kit installations.
“That week really opened my eyes to what working in this type of environment could be like. When the week was up, I knew this was what I wanted to do when I left school. The owner met with me at the end of the day and asked me if I wanted to join the company and sign up for an apprenticeship, I jumped at the chance and have never looked back!”
Mark’s journey exemplifies the importance of early exposure and hands-on experiences in shaping career aspirations. Through proactive engagement with work experience opportunities and the guidance of supportive mentors, he was able to transition from a curious student to a committed apprentice in the automotive sector.
Mark’s career journey since………
Since becoming an apprentice, Mark has worked across dealer groups, the Department of Education, and the RAC in a range of roles covering training and business development. Alongside senior management positions within the IMI, Mark was also instrumental in setting them up as an Apprentice End Point Assessment Organisation. He joined Autotech Group in 2023 as Commercial Director and, at the start of 2024, was promoted to become the company’s Chief Revenue Officer
Do you have a work experience story to share? We’d love to hear it. Email dave@ready4work.uk to share your experience.
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