November 2019

NOVEMBER 2019 AFTERMARKET 61 www.aftermarketonline.net TRAINING Upcoming training dates and news on courses TRAINING UPDATE Textar is sponsoring the IMI’s Student Membership package, which provides information and guidance, as well as a hub for technical updates, online learning, video content, jobs, events, competitions and more. Scott Irwin, Head of Technical Training at TMD Friction, said: “As part of TMD Friction, Textar benefits from the company’s € 30m annual investment in extensive research, development and testing. It’s great to be able to share this research and findings with the next generation. It’s essential that people entering into the sector at this stage feel that they have an encouraging network to gain real passion for the work.” Textar worked with the IMI for the last three years. According to Scott, it is vital to support young people within the industry: “At a time when skill shortages and mental health and well-being play such a huge part within the sector, we at Textar think it’s more important than ever to guarantee the right support is there for the next generation.” Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI added: “We’re delighted that Textar has recognised the importance of supporting the next generation of workers with sponsorship of our Student Membership package. Hardly a day goes by when the skills gap in the sector isn’t discussed and there is clear recognition that we need to do all we can to enthuse young people about the opportunities available. It’s also vital that we provide young people with all the support they need as they embark on their career. “Being a member of the IMI is a clear demonstration to consumers and the industry as a whole of an individual’s commitment to the best training and working practices. With Textar’s support we can therefore ensure even the newest workers in our sector – the students starting on their career path – can be part of that story.” Learning about drive belt systems with Gates Techs in Shropshire who are customers of Motor Parts Direct (MPD) recently took part in a technical workshop organised in partnership with Gates. The workshop was delivered by Gates for MPD customers at its Shrewsbury branch. MPD Regional Manager Darren Jackson commented: “The degree of technical detail provided was precisely what our customers wanted. I don’t think their interest level ever wavered. There were lots technical tips and a few unexpected hints and surprises along the way.” Topics covered included hot oil belts, cooling hose designs, electric water pumps as well as advances in coolant technology. Attendees were also informed about the deployment of QR codes on all of the latest Gates PowerGrip timing belt kit boxes. In place of paper instructions, mechanics now have a direct link to OE-based and engine-specific installation procedures on-screen. These mobile-friendly, digital instructions are accessed by scanning the QR code with a smartphone, or by entering the product key, via a computer - https://install.gates.com Welcome to Aftermarket’s training section. Here you can find the latest on upcoming training dates, as well as news on courses becoming available. If you have information on training you wish to share, please get in touch with the editor via email: alex@aftermarket.co.uk Textar sponsors IMI Student Membership package