My motoring inspiration: Craig Kennedy

Winning gold at IMI Skills Competitions in 2019 has lead Craig Kennedy to the international stage and taking home Bronze for the UK in the Car Painting category at WorldSkills 2022, but how did he get into automotive and what are his aspirations? MotorPro sits down with the medal winner to find out…

Who inspired you to join the automotive industry and why?

I was inspired to join the motor industry by my dad who worked as a mechanic. When I was younger I helped him a lot working on our cars at home, so picked up an interest in cars from there.

Once you'd decided it was the sector for you, how did you start making it a reality?

I began by doing two weeks work experience at Howell Accident Repair Centre trying out different areas of the bodyshop to see what I liked best. After that I was able to start my apprenticeship there in the paint shop.

What was the biggest challenge in getting into automotive and how did you overcome it?

I didn't really find many challenges getting into the industry, technicians are highly sought after so there are loads of job opportunities.

How did you get involved with the Skills Competitions…?

My college, Riverpark Training and Development Centre, entered me into Worldskills UK. I competed in a regional competition and qualified for the national final and I was fortunately able to win gold in that.

...and how was the experience of heading on to the international stage with WorldSkills?

Being able to compete internationally representing the UK was amazing and the experience was incredible. I'm still undecided where I'd like my career to go but WorldSkills had opened so many doors for me and given me contacts all over the world, so I would like to work internationally with my job at some stage.

What advice would you give to someone looking at an automotive career, but perhaps unsure if it's the right choice?

Just go for it if they are even remotely interested in the industry. It gives young people a good income while gaining a technical education and if they do change their mind, they won't be stuck with a student debt like they would have in university.