Oldfields Garage encourages students to explore emerging automotive careers
Students at Lady Hawkins School in Kington, Herefordshire gained valuable insight into the diverse career opportunities within the automotive industry, thanks to an engaging talk by Tim Benson, owner of Leominster-based Oldfields Garage.
Addressing Year 10 and 11 pupils, Mr Benson shared his journey in the industry, emphasising that success is not determined by background or academic achievements.
Highlighting the automotive sector’s role in everyday life, Mr Benson challenged misconceptions that careers in the industry are limited to mechanics or car sales. Instead, he showcased a broad range of career paths, including diagnostics, engineering, software development, and business management.
“It was great to engage with such an enthusiastic group of students and shed light on the many career paths available in the automotive aftermarket,” said Mr Benson. “With rapid technological advancements, we need bright, passionate young people to help drive the industry forward.”
Drawing on his experience growing up in a family-run garage and pursuing further education, Mr Bensonunderscored the value of apprenticeships as a gateway to rewarding careers. He explained how these programs offer hands-on experience and industry-recognised qualifications, paving the way for long-term professional growth.
Mr Benson also highlighted the sector’s significant contribution to the UK economy, which employs over 813,000 people and generates £24.3 billion annually. As the industry evolves, he pointed to emerging technologies such as electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles, artificial intelligence, and advanced diagnostics, all shaping the future of automotive careers.
Encouraging students to explore opportunities in the field, Mr Benson concluded with an open invitation for questions, sparking discussions about the industry’s potential and the exciting prospects it offers.
“It was a fantastic, thought-provoking session on all things automotive,” said Lydia Stevens, Careers Adviser at Lady Hawkins. “Our students and staff truly appreciate employers like Tim who invest in the future of young people.”
Oldfields Garage, which recently earned major accolades, including Garage of the Year at the British Independent Garage of the Year Awards and Apprentice Employer Award at the Herefordshire Ludlow and North Shropshire College Apprenticeship Awards, offers MOT testing, servicing, diagnostics, and repairs for a wide variety of cars and vans.
In the coming weeks, the business is set to expand its services with the launch of a dedicated electric vehicle bay, catering to the growing demand for EV maintenance. It will also be extending its commercial vehicle and motorhome servicing capabilities.
For more information about Oldfields Garage and its services, visit www.oldfieldsgarage.com.
