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Due to growing demand for its services, Autotech Academy has appointed Gemma Edwards as its second National Careers Manager.
Gemma Edwards joins the company from her position as Careers Coordinator for the IMI and is set to manage college partnerships in the South. Dave Walker, who joined Autotech Academy in March, will oversee the North.
Launched by Autotech Group earlier this year, Autotech Academy provides qualified college leavers with a gateway into the industry through a paid internship. Over 20 colleges are now officially linked to the innovative program, with newly qualified students already working as interns in both the independent garage sector and main dealer groups.
As the main point of contact for all CEIAG (Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance) enquiries for the IMI, Gemma has a wealth of knowledge within automotive training, careers information and supporting students into the industry.
Acutely aware of the issues both colleges and automotive companies face in recruiting young talent, in her new role, Gemma will collaborate with FE Colleges in the South of England, to identify current and recently qualified students with the right qualities, skills and attitude to then find them the right paid internship position.
Considerably cutting the time it takes for automotive employers to mentor new, inexperienced college leavers, Gemma will be the link between employers and interns, providing both with ongoing support.
“I am delighted to be joining the team at Autotech Academy and looking forward to supporting our colleges and their students into careers within the Industry,” Gemma comments. “This really is a fantastic opportunity for level 3 students to gain the experience needed within a professional workshop environment.”
James Mackay, Director of Autotech Academy, commented: “Gemma is a great addition to the growing Autotech Academy division. She brings a depth of knowledge with her on the challenges both colleges and students face as they make the transition into full-time employment and, through her work with the IMI, Gemma also understands the pressures automotive employers face during the recruitment process. We are delighted that she has joined the team.”