Collision Repair ākonga reap the benefits of UCOL’s industry partnerships

UCOL are celebrating their strong industry connections after New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Collision Repair ākonga (students) relished a rare behind the scenes experience at the country’s renowned Southwards Car Museum.

UCOL kaimahi and ākonga were recently treated to a VIP tour of the museum's restoration workshops by Manager John Bellamore, which are closed to the general public.

Nate Ferrier, Kaikookiri Māori Pasifika Trades Training, says the experience is an excellent direct result of UCOL’s dedication to building and maintaining partnerships within the community so ākonga are provided with extra experiences and opportunities to further enhance their learning and knowledge.

“UCOL really values the importance of collaborating with industry experts, businesses and organisations within the community, as we have with the team at Southwards Car Museum.

“UCOL is extremely appreciative of these invaluable connections as they enable students to experience firsthand what it’s like and what it takes to work and succeed in their chosen career pathway.”

He says the tour of the museum was an incredible experience for ākonga, and Bellamore’s knowledge and enthusiasm were awe-inspiring.

“Ākonga got so much from John’s in-depth kōrero on how processes, materials and technologies have developed over the years and how important it is to maintain a skilled workforce in the automotive refinishing and collision repair industry.”

“We were so proud of our ākonga during the tour. They showed clear appreciation for the experience with the many questions they had for John. They gained an abundance of knowledge!”

Ferrier says being able to engage with additional industry experts, experience rare and historic facilities and getting up and close with antique vehicles from around the world helped to further ignite the passion ākonga have to succeed with their studies.

“Getting to see the workshops that are equipped with a wide range of specialist automotive refinishing/collision repair machinery and equipment utilised in the restoration of various rare cars, motorcycles and aircraft, enabled ākonga to experience human ingenuity and technological advancement at its best.