Aftermarket December/January 2023

training it offers remains as relevant as ever. Luke observed: “With everything that is happening in the industry it can seem overwhelming for some independents, but help is at hand. They may feel that franchised dealers offer more desirable career aspirations for technicians, because of their manufacturer-based investment and training, but they can in fact access the same level, or an even superior standard of staff training. Luke added: “Understanding electrification is a notable example of where a training path is beneficial. We can incorporate relevant courses, such as Electric and Hybrid Light Vehicle Maintenance Levels 2 through to 4, that train technicians on how to work safely around the high voltage systems on modern vehicles, with the result that garages can serve these vehicles and can conform to any shift in liability.” Continuation Meanwhile, DENSO’s e-Learning programme offers IMI- accredited, online technical training and assessment as well as providing the course content for its annual League of True Mechanics competition. DENSO Europe, Pan European Strategic Marketing Manager, Fatiha Laauich explained the offering: “To keep existing technicians coming back and ensure we are continuing to provide important additional technical content, we introduce new modules every year. Earlier this year for example, we launched a new air conditioning module and another on engine cooling, as well as a focus on ignition coils and one on oxygen sensors. These were brought in alongside the continuation of our comprehensive diesel course, all of which are IMI-accredited. “In addition to the interactive online courses, the successful completion of which rely on technicians studying the material and taking a final exam, in 2020 we decided to introduce a competitive element to supplement the technical content, and add a little friendly national rivalry. This came with the launch of the League of True Mechanics (LOTM) competition, which rewards multiple prize winners and culminates in an overall champion in each DENSO sales region.” To register for the e-Learning platform for free and to sign up for the LOTM competition, visit: www.denso- technic.com/uk/ Strategy Training is not always just about the technical side though. With staff recruitment more challenging at present, Glen Callum Associates (GCA)is training companies on candidate engagement strategies and using creative solutions to attract candidates to the aftermarket from other sectors. Glen Shepherd, Director of GCA observed; “Other industries offer a pool of untapped talent, and with minimal training. This talent could serve the automotive industry well in disciplines such as sales and marketing, IT, SaaS, purchasing and supply chain, distribution and manufacturing. We are working with businesses throughout the aftermarket to determine which areas of their business they can use training to introduce staff from outside the sector.” GCA also recently launched Meet the Employer, an initiative to enable employers to show candidates what they can offer, via bite-sized interview sessions. Glen added: “We’re always looking at new ways to 48 AFTERMARKET DECEMBER/JANUARY 2023 TRAINING AND APPRENTICESHIPS Above: Technicians keeping up to date with the latest methods www.aftermarketonline.net