Commercial vehicle technician Review

When I start I am asked to clean up the workshop for half an hour before starting a job either by myself or with a colleague. I do simpler jobs such as services and replacing bulbs, mirrors and wings on my own but do more complex jobs such as electrical and diagnosis with my colleagues. However sometimes I only get limited time with my colleagues on more advanced jobs as I am required to service a vehicle or do other jobs for example.

I have further developed my mechanical knowledge of engines and car suspension and braking systems as well as learning about transmission systems. I’ve also learnt about heavy vehicle specific systems such as air brakes and air suspension. I’ve learnt the basic steps of diagnosis of electrical faults also.

Overall I do enjoy the programme when I am learning about diagnosis and electrical systems however I do sometimes have days when I am just servicing vehicles and have no time to work with colleagues and learn something new. I’ve made lots of friends at college and keep in contact with them out of college

The training at college is well structured with a week in the classroom learning theory and a week in the workshop doing practical tasks. Sometimes at work my learning can be disorganised due to the dealer being busy and/or absence of other colleagues but I usually manage to do a different job with a colleagues once or twice a week

My employer is often very supportive of me and all my colleagues in the workshop are always willing to help me should I have a question or a problem. Because of this I have developed a good working relationship with most colleagues and I'm never afraid to ask a question.

My skillnet assessor usually visits my workplace every couple of months and talks through a plan of what to do in the next couple of months to stay on track for my qualification. I am always ahead of schedule and complete the work for my qualification ahead of the deadline

When at work I don’t have the opportunity to work on all types of vehicle on all types of faults. My training provider helps with this as when I am at college I learn about the whole system on the vehicle to give me a better understanding and knowledge of the systems

A couple of times a year my employer organises social events that everyone is invited to to allow everyone to get to know each other helping us work together better when at work

Yes

Well structured training and a range of work is available due to them being a main dealer for DAF trucks.

Make sure that you have a good interest in the subject you are applying for (workshop/ parts)