OESAA Academy Live hailed after igniting passion amongst next generation

The Original Equipment Suppliers Aftermarket Association (OESAA) has received high praise for its unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of automotive talent. This recognition comes in the wake of two recent and highly successful OESAA Academy Live events held at Exeter and Hugh Baird colleges.

 

Andy Wells and Lynn Masterton, representing Exeter College and Hugh Baird College respectively, commended the organisation and its members for their exceptional professionalism, stanch dedication, and invaluable insights. These insights were shared with over 200 students within a span of just one week.

 

These events, hosted over two days at each college, were made possible by the participation of renowned industry leaders and proud OESAA members, such as Schaeffler, Brembo, Banner, Dayco, Bosch, VARTA, Laser Tools, MAHLE Aftermarket, HELLA, and DENSO. Additionally, Garage Services Online, an ardent supporter of OESAA, and the headline sponsor, GSF, made significant contributions. The events commenced with an engaging trade evening, followed by student seminars and demonstrations the next day.

 

Andy expressed his satisfaction: “We were delighted to collaborate with OESAA during two exceptionally productive days. The opportunity for our faculty and students to directly interact with OEMs was invaluable, not only for personal growth but also for fostering a deeper understanding of the automotive sector. 

 

“Our students found the event incredibly informative and gained insights from some of the most prominent figures in the automotive aftermarket. A total of 160 students attended, all of whom now possess a clearer understanding of potential career pathways and the educational benefits of engaging with external organisations.”

 

Lynn echoed the sentiment: “It was a pleasure to welcome OESAA to our campus. Our students gained authentic insights into the industry. The presentations were both captivating and directly applicable to their ongoing studies. We take pride in cultivating positive relationships with organisations, like OESAA.”

 

Both colleges have expressed a keen interest in collaborating with OESAA again in 2024. Meanwhile, regarding the future of OESAA Academy Live, the organisation will unveil details on the evolution of the format in due course.

Classic Car Garage star Colin Denton to speak at Schaeffler REPXPERT Conference

26 Mar, 2024
Colin Denton, star of TV’s Classic Car Garage has been unveiled as a keynote speaker for Schaeffler‘s all-new REPXPERT Conference, which takes place at the Manufacturing Training Centre in Coventry on Wednesday 22 nd May, 2024. Having clocked-up decades of automotive experience, when he’s not in front of the camera, Colin is busy as the Chief Executive of the North London Garages Group Training Association (NLGGTA), which for 50 years has been delivering training, apprenticeships and more. At the REPXPERT Conference, Colin will be looking at the changing face of automotive apprenticeships in the context of the skills shortage. He will explain how this affects garages and the wider industry. “Apprenticeships are the foundation of the whole garage industry,” said Colin. “The way we teach young people is being influenced by changes in vehicles, but it's not just that. The people who are wanting to become apprentices is also changing. It's important for the industry to acknowledge both of these factors.” Available on a first-come, first-served basis, garages are being urged to book their free REPXPERT Conference tickets now to avoid disappointment. The number of remaining tickets is extremely limited. "Colin’s experience and perspective will provide even greater depth to the content on offer at the Schaeffler REPXPERT Conference,” said Jeff Earl, Marketing Communications Manager at Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket (UK) Ltd. “His knowledge of the industry, and his sheer enthusiasm for all things automotive will prove to be a big draw for those looking to attend.” The Schaeffler REPXPERT Conference runs from 9am to 5pm, and delegates will be treated to breakfast, hot lunch and refreshments throughout the day.  For more information and to book tickets, click here: https://oeparts.typeform.com/to/Nj0eezec

First OESAA Academy Live of 2024 earns rave reviews from Trafford College staff and students

By Gillian March • 18 Mar, 2024
The Original Equipment Suppliers Aftermarket Association (OESAA) was thrilled with the overwhelming success of its first OESAA Academy Live event of the year, hosted at Trafford College, Manchester. The event, held at the end of February, showcased industry expertise and experience from colleagues representing industry giants, such as Schaeffler, Bosch, DENSO, MAHLE, Brembo, ZF, and GSF Car Parts. Jonathan Hudson, representing Trafford and Stockport College Group, extended appreciation to OESAA and its participating for inspiring the next generation of automotive talent. He said: “From all of us at Trafford and Stockport College Group, we want to express our sincere appreciation to the group of amazing people from the Original Equipment Suppliers Aftermarket Association and the enlightening education session provided by the team. “The knowledge and understanding gained by was invaluable to both staff and students. The expertise and passion for the industry truly shone through, and we were incredibly grateful for the opportunity to learn.” The feedback emphasised the event’s significance for both students and faculty. Throughout the day, attendees were treated to engaging presentations and workshops; Siti Abdullah of Brembo, for example, introduced students to braking solutions but also revealed her pathway into the automotive sector. Bosch’s Mark Heard addressed prevailing challenges in vehicle diagnostics. Stuart Mcleod from ZF provided a comprehensive overview of transmission servicing, enriching participants with essential insights into the automotive sector. Moreover, Jo Warren from GSF Car Parts gave an outstanding presentation about CV writing and career advice, further enhancing the educational experience. Nigel Morgan, the chairman of OESAA, expressed his delight at the event’s triumph: “These events serve as a vital platform for us to engage with the next generation of automotive professionals, offering them first-hand insights into our industry. I was delighted with the level of engagement from the students.” The success of OESAA Academy Live underlined OESAA’s commitment to nurturing talent and discovering excellence within automotive colleges. As such, it looks forward to future events at Suffolk New College and Blackburn College. They promise to be as engaging and exciting as Trafford College.

Marking the importance of International Women’s Day with Brembo’s Siti Abdullah

By Gillian March • 08 Mar, 2024
In honour of International Women’s Day, Brembo Expert and Technical Training EMEA Coordinator, Siti Abdullah, reflects on over two decades in the automotive arena and highlights both progress and ongoing challenges in gender diversity within the sector: “I have been in the automotive industry since 2003, and there have been some positive changes, with more women featuring in the industry. There are some great initiatives, like the Automotive 30% Club motoring towards its ‘30 by 30’ goal , having filled 27% of key leadership and decision-making roles with women. “However, in workshops and roles of a technical capacity, the gender imbalance is still prominent. There is still a lot of work that needs to be done to overcome the industry stereotypes to improve this imbalance. “In Brembo, where over 15,000 people worldwide contribute to the company’s success, embracing diversity is not just a value but a vital strength. Brembo is committed to promoting an inclusive environment capable of supporting a sense of belonging. It empowers people to see themselves as integral contributors to the Group’s achievements, fostering a culture of inclusion that respects voices, individualities, and unique qualities of each person.” As we commemorate International Women’s Day, let’s continue to break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and build an inclusive automotive industry where everyone’s talents are recognised and valued.
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