Embracing the Toyota Talent Powered by Autotech Academy internship initiative, Stoneacre sites have welcomed ten interns to date.
The initiative bridges the gap between newly qualified Level 3 automotive students and motor industry employers. It equips interns with a toolbox, uniform, and 6-12 month paid internships that lead to full-time employment in over 95% of cases. Toyota provides value-add training and support through a fit for work assessment and report, and regular webinars.
Dean Upton, aftersales manager at Stoneacre Newcastle, said: “The interns arrive with skills but no preconceived industry experience, making them ideal candidates.
“We’re able to mould them into specific roles tailored to our workshop goals with a clear focus and structured training.”
Cameron Bell, the site’s first intern, completed his seven-month internship and is now employed as a technician at Stoneacre Newcastle. Bell said: “The support behind the internship really stood out to me. From the tools and uniform provided to the strong network that guided me through my first months, these are facets we wouldn’t have had without this programme.”
Cameron now mentors Szymon Brychcy, who joined the Newcastle site as an intern in July. Together, they deliver Toyota Express Maintenance (TXM). Both earned their Level 3 qualifications in Light Vehicle Repair and Maintenance before joining the program.
Steve Wood, regional aftersales manager for Stoneacre, said: “Service times have been cut down to just 45 minutes, and not only are we meeting customer expectations for faster turnarounds, but we’re also able to open our workshop diaries to accommodate more appointments. It’s a win-win for us and our customers.
“It’s no secret that finding qualified technicians is tough, but through the internship programme, we’re addressing that by growing our own. We’re preparing the next generation to transition seamlessly into roles, keeping our business agile as our experienced workforce begins to retire. It’s a constant cycle of development.”