Meet IMI Skills Competition Body Repair Silver Medallist 2024, Arran Cooper from Steer Automotive:
Competition experience so far:
“So far it’s been an incredible experience. In most jobs there isn’t the chance to even take part in this kind of competition and show off your skills. Also going to new places like Eyebox in Coventry, and meeting people from different body shops has been great. I’m really thankful to have had the opportunity. As for the tasks, the main thing for me challenge-wise was working to the time limits, especially with bonding and riveting where that’s not usually something you really consider.”
Career journey so far:
"When I left school I did an ICT, Business and Media Studies course. I ended up leaving that early as I wanted to be more hands-on, and went to a different college to study Mechanics at Level 1. Then Covid hit and college kind of disappeared and I eventually saw the opportunity here with Apollo (now part of Steer Group), and even though all roles at my closest shop were taken, they wanted to take me on so created a role for me here at the Southampton site."
Future aspirations:
"Keeping up with new technology and skills like PDR (Paintless Dent Removal) which I did a course on recently. I’d like to be an all-rounder, along the lines of MET so I can learn and take on anything that comes my way."
Employer and manager comments:
"Taking part in the competition really builds confidence, dealing with working in a more pressurised environment. Arran is part of the future of our business so it's important we put him and other apprentices in front of as many experiences as possible."
Advice for new apprentices:
“In the first instance, building a good relationship with your mentor is key. And secondly, always be open to learning new things, take every training opportunity you get as the techniques and technology evolve.”
