Car-O-Liner was instrumental in the setting up of a body repair skills arena at the recent ABP Autobody Expo in Manchester and has also been very active in providing sponsorship and practical assistance in both National Skills and World Skills competitions for young autobody apprentices.

 

Sales Manager Stuart Alexander is a champion of Car-O-Liner’s successful programme of bringing on new body repair talent and is passionate about providing young people with training opportunities in the industry. He says, "People can talk about a skills shortage, but there are some very talented young people out there looking for opportunities. It is up to companies and organisations within the industry to find these people and harness their enthusiasm.”

 

At the Autobody Expo, Car-O-Liner and a number of other sponsors created an area where practical repair skills could be demonstrated. Throughout the event trainee technicians took part in actual skills competitions in the arena under the watchful eye of their assessors. The young apprentices from various colleges and companies across the UK, included Gold Medal Skills Competition winner Stuart Davidson, who provided an impressive live demonstration on fitting a rear quarter panel.

 

Other demonstrations taking place included advanced metal finishing skills and vehicle alignment using the computerised Car-O-liner measuring system. Stuart commented, "This event provides a great showcase for the skills of the young technicians involved and more importantly demonstrates to the industry that there are trainees out there with a great interest and enthusiasm for body repair. Hopefully what we are doing will inspire more young people to get involved and encourage companies within the bodyshop sector to become active with apprentice programmes.