The crucial role of mentors in bridging the gap from education to employment

We fill the automotive skills funnel, while providing college leavers, through a paid internship, with a solid foothold on the career ladder. Within six to twelve months (depending on the employer’s needs), the paid interns are equipped with all the necessary experience to complement their college learning and any additional tooling and training which will help them make the transition into permanent employment. 

Throughout this process, the role of a mentor is pivotal to the programme. Mentors not only guide interns through their initial phase in the workplace but also play a significant part in shaping their future careers.  

Unfortunately, there are several misconceptions about the time and effort required to be an effective mentor, so here we are debunking these myths and providing a robust support system to ensure that both mentors and interns thrive. 

 
Guidance, support and supervision 

One common misconception is that mentoring an intern demands an extensive amount of time, which busy vehicle technicians can hardly spare. In reality, mentoring does not need to be time-consuming. Effective mentoring is about offering guidance, support and supervision in a structured manner. With a clear action plan and the right tools, mentoring can be seamlessly integrated into the daily routine of a technician. 

Another misconception is that interns lack the necessary skill set to perform tasks efficiently, thereby requiring constant supervision. Autotech Academy interns come equipped with a solid foundation of knowledge, having completed their Level 3 qualifications in various automotive disciplines. While their practical experience might be limited, they possess the essential theoretical understanding and are keen to apply their learning in real-world scenarios. They can quickly become an additional resource to a busy garage or workshop.  

 
Supporting the mentorship journey 

Autotech Academy is committed to making the mentorship process as smooth and rewarding as possible. We provide a comprehensive toolkit and step-by-step approaches to help mentors maximise their time with interns. Here’s how we support the process: 

• Allocating and preparing a mentor: Choosing the right mentor is crucial. We guide employers in selecting mentors who are not only experienced but also patient and willing to share their knowledge. We also ensure mentors are well-prepared to welcome interns, with clear instructions on health and safety procedures, system access, and the intern’s daily routine. 

• Structured first-day prep: We provide detailed checklists to help mentors and employers prepare for the intern’s first day. This includes everything from scheduling an induction to assigning a locker, ensuring the intern feels welcomed and prepared to start their journey. 

• The intern toolkit: Each intern receives a toolbox, delivered in time for their first day. This toolbox remains on-site and is essential for their hands-on training. By having access to the right tools, interns can immediately start practicing their skills under the supervision of their mentors. 

• Clear expectations and progress reviews: We outline clear expectations for interns, differentiating them from apprentices and emphasising the practical experience they will gain. Regular reviews during the first three months help track progress and provide constructive feedback, ensuring interns develop confidence and competence in their roles. 

• Comprehensive support system: Our support doesn’t stop at providing toolkits and guidelines. We offer continuous assistance through regular check-ins and are always available to address any concerns from both interns and mentors. This ensures a smooth and successful internship experience. 

• End-of-Placement Transition: As the internship progresses, we regularly check in to gather feedback and ensure everything is on track. Upon completion, we facilitate the transition from intern to permanent employee, hoping that the intern becomes a valuable asset to the business. 

Mentoring an intern is a rewarding experience that benefits both the mentor and the intern. With the right approach and support from Autotech Academy, mentoring can be a seamless process that does not significantly disrupt the mentor’s daily responsibilities. By investing a little time and effort, mentors can make a substantial impact on the careers of new vehicle technicians, helping them to bridge the gap between education and employment.  

For more information visit www.autotechacademy.co.uk