After 44 years on the tools, Dave knows exactly what works for him and contracting continues to be his career choice.
Based in Newbury, Dave’s journey into the automotive industry started thanks to family.
“My two older brothers pretty much took me into it,” he says. “I ended up in a large garage and started my life as a mechanic.”
More than four decades later, he’s still doing what he enjoys most, helping workshops manage their workload while enjoying the freedom that comes with contracting.
44 Years as a Mechanic
Dave has spent 44 years working as a vehicle technician, building a wealth of experience across multiple vehicle brands and workshop environments.
Over the years, the automotive industry has changed significantly, from advances in vehicle technology to the rise of electric vehicles. Dave has embraced those changes and continued to invest in his skills, completing his Level 3 EV qualification through Autotech Recruit.
He’s also taken part in manufacturer training programmes, including training with BMW, Toyota and Lexus, helping him stay current with the latest developments across the industry.
Finding Contracting Through Autotech Recruit
Dave first joined Autotech Recruit 12 years ago.
“The process was very easy,” he recalls. “I phoned up, gave them my certificate details and within a couple of days I had work lined up.”
While he has left contracting twice over the years, both times were short-lived.
“I’ve been with Autotech Recruit for 12 years, although I did leave twice for around six months. In the end, I came back to contracting.”
For Dave, the benefits simply outweigh the alternatives.
Why Contracting Works
One of the biggest advantages of contracting is having control over the type of work he takes on.
“No more long diagnostic jobs. No heavy work like head gaskets or clutches,” he explains.
Instead, Dave can focus on the areas he enjoys most while helping workshops that need additional support.
The flexibility is another major benefit.
“It’s the freedom of choice.”
Being able to decide where, when and how he works has been a key factor in keeping him in contracting for so many years.
Supporting Workshops When They Need It Most
Throughout his contracting career, Dave has worked with a wide variety of businesses, including Toyota and Lexus retailers.
For him, the role is about more than just completing jobs.
“Most clients appreciate the help with the workload. I try to do my best for them. That’s what my job is.”
His experience allows him to quickly integrate into a workshop, support existing teams and help businesses maintain productivity during busy periods, staff shortages or recruitment gaps.
It’s this practical, hands-on approach that has made him a valued contractor time and time again.
The Reality of Life on the Road
While Dave is a strong advocate for contracting, he’s honest about the challenges too.
“Occasional travel can be a downside, particularly when traffic adds time to the journey,” he says.
That said, longer commutes are far less common these days. While some assignments have required more travel, Dave now works much closer to home, making his day-to-day commute both manageable and convenient.
For him, the chance to work with different brands, environments and teams is one of the biggest advantages of contracting, and one that outweighs the occasional extra miles on the road.
Would He Go Back to Permanent Employment?
The answer is straightforward.
After more than a decade of contracting and 44 years in the trade, Dave has no desire to return to permanent employment.
The flexibility, variety and ability to choose the work that suits him have made contracting the right fit for this stage of his career.
Dave’s Advice for Anyone Considering Contracting
For vehicle technicians thinking about making the move, Dave recommends not being put off by the business side of contracting.
“Find yourself a decent accountant.”
He also suggests considering an umbrella company initially if you’re unsure about setting up on your own.
Once you’re comfortable with how contracting works, moving to a limited company can be the next step.
Looking Back
From his early days in a large garage to 44 years as a vehicle technician, Dave’s career has been built on experience, adaptability and a strong work ethic.
“Most clients appreciate the help with the workload. I try to do my best for them. That’s what my job is.”
For Dave, contracting isn’t just a way of working. It’s the freedom to put his experience where it’s needed most, on his own terms.