After working in a factory, and as a support worker, 42-year-old Sarah Heaton decided to re-train and enrolled onto Motor Vehicle level 1. With the aim of eventually working in the automotive industry, Sarah has now completed both level 1 and 2, and is now on her way to successfully completing her level 3 IMI Automotive qualification with the college.
Sarah said: “I had a passion for vehicles and wanted a better understanding of how vehicles work and are maintained. I also wanted to learn about the advancements that are happening within the industry as it is continuously evolving. The level 1 course taught me basic knowledge about the automotive industry, and levels 2 and 3 have covered the inner workings more in depth and have provided me with good knowledge of how cars work.
“I feel I’ve grown in confidence and can definitely see a future within the automotive industry as a technician once I have finished the level 3. If you have a passion for cars, or an interest go for it! This course has so many transferable skills and has opened my eyes to how many roles there are in the automotive industry.
“As a male dominated industry, I would say to other females that the industry has changed a lot and is very different now. There are some great female role models within the industry, and here at the college the curriculum manager is female which is encouraging. I don’t feel I’ve been treated any differently to my younger, male peers by the tutors, in fact I’ve had a really positive experience at college.
“My advice to someone who hasn’t been in education for a long time is to approach the college for advice or help in deciding what’s the best course for you. Remember that it is never too late to learn. I was unsure when I first started, but was put at ease by meeting tutors, understanding what would be expected of me, and what to expect within the course.”
To find out more about our Automotive courses click here.
