BERMUDIANS were today given new encouragement to train as automotive technicians with the launch of a new programme by the HWP Group.The Automotive Service Training Programme (ASTP) will accept five persons each year.

To qualify, each must commit to a three-year apprenticeship, which will be done in conjunction with a complementary college degree. By the end of the period, candidates should have qualified as full-time junior technicians.

“The ASTP places intrinsic value on both education and hands-on, real- world experience,” said Jonathan Brewin, president and CEP of HWP.

“There is a real need in Bermuda for highly-skilled automotive technicians and apprenticeship is an ideal way to gain the experience necessary to enjoy a stimulating career in the automotive industry.

“A career as an automotive technician offers endless possibilities for professional growth and development.”

This year’s apprentices are Ray Butterfield, Dajon Carey, Andrew Francis, Zico Hewey and Munir Rashid.

Over the course of three years, they will be trained in every aspect of automotive mechanics — from fuel and emissions to brakes and suspension. When not in college, they will be expected to spend two days per week in a theoretical training class and two days working closely with a certified A-1 automotive technician in an applied setting.

“On the fifth day of each week the apprentices will be tested on the knowledge gained in that week’s training module at HWP, through Honda’s online university,” a spokesperson added.

“Successful completion of the weekly module will count as a credit in the ASTP.”

The opportunity was hailed as a plus for Bermudians interested in automotive functions, by Fernando Oliveira, HWP’s acting vice-president of After Sales & New Business Development.

“Our goal in launching this formalised automotive technician training programme in-house at HWP is to offer Bermudians the opportunity to train in this competitive field and to progress in their careers with the skills and knowledge they need to be truly successful.

“Each year we will select five apprentices to enter the programme and work with highly-skilled automotive technicians from Bermuda and around the world, to learn the complex techniques required to be an automotive technician in today’s increasingly digital world.”

Anyone interested in the programme should contact Mr. Oliveira on 295-5000.

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