Schaeffler has hailed the first-ever REPXPERT Academy LIVE event as a ‘fantastic triumph’ after welcoming more than 70 technicians through the doors of Lincoln College.

At the event, held in partnership with the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), delegates participated in training sessions focused on timing belt drive systems, double clutch systems and modern thermal management systems, hosted by renowned REPXPERTs Andrew Vaux, Bob Carter and Alistair Mason.

REPXPERT Brand Ambassador, Andy Savva (AKA The Garage Inspector), presented a well-received session, designed to show workshop owners, in particular, how they can ‘empower their business’.

Matthew Develin, who has attended previous REPXPERT training events, commented, “REPXPERT Academy LIVE was informative and gave a great overview of up-and-coming technology, as well as what is currently on the market, which some workshops are shying away from. The event gave guidance and support, plus it allowed us to put a face to a company that offers so much help and advice.”

Schaeffler Managing Director, Nigel Morgan, took time to speak to visitors. He said: “It’s absolutely fantastic, a triumph! The attendance shows there is an appetite towards high-quality training and acknowledgement that there is a need for it. Technicians need to invest and so do we, because neither of us can make a living in the future without each other.” He added, “REPXPERT Academy LIVE is a long-term project and this is the first of many. From November’s success, we know we’ve got the recipe right; however, it is about visitor experience, and we’ll take all of the feedback on-board to ensure the next event is even better.”

IMI Events Officer, Georgia Foley said the success of the event justified the institute’s decision to partner Schaeffler at REPXPERT Academy Live. “At the IMI, we demonstrate the need for professionalism and keeping standards up-to-date, and as our industry is unregulated, it’s important that professionals maintain standards and quality of work. We’re advocates of continuing professional development (CPD), and REPXPERT Academy LIVE is a new way for technicians to log their CPD credits against their professional portfolio."

After the success of the inaugural Lincoln event, Schaeffler has confirmed that the next REPXPERT Academy LIVE event will take place at Basingstoke College on the 25th January 2020. Other host venues planned during 2020 include Blackpool, Warwick and Swansea. Schaeffler is encouraging visitors to register their interest now, so they can receive updates about dates and locations, and also be advised when they can reserve a place at each event.