Emma Ward is the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for April 2024.
The 19-year-old is in the fourth year of her light vehicle apprenticeship and works at Mercedes-Benz Sunshine Coast.
Emma’s interest in pursuing a career in the automotive industry began while she was at school. When she was just 15, and with no particular interest in automotive at the time, Emma completed a week of work experience at Mercedes-Benz Sunshine Coast. It was a life-changing few days.
“It was really something I stumbled upon,” said Emma. “I never really thought about being in the trade, but I also didn’t know what I wanted to do after school. The opportunity came up to apply for the work experience and I really enjoyed it. I finished Year 10 then left and went straight into the apprenticeship.”
Working at a Mercedes-Benz dealership does, of course, mean that Emma is working on some of the most sophisticated and technologically advanced vehicles currently available and, as a fourth-year apprentice, she is trusted to do most jobs that come through the shop. She is also partnered up with one of workshop’s Master Technicians, meaning she is exposed to the really detailed, complex jobs that will one day become part of her regular work.
“I do a lot of repairs and services and am starting to lean into the more diagnostic scene at the moment,” she said. “And working with one of our master techs means when he does big jobs – like quotes for engines, diagnosis and compression testing, and all the stuff to do with engine replacements – I help out. He goes through it all with me and that is pretty cool.”
Mercedes-Benz is a leader in the electrification of the automotive industry and currently has eight electric vehicles (EV) and three hybrid vehicle models available in Australia. Working at a Mercedes dealership means Emma is getting exposed to some of this technology and has worked on some EV components, she is keen to learn more. Happily, Mercedes-Benz does offer detailed training for its technicians and there are, of course, training options elsewhere too.
“We have done a couple of electric motors replacements, and that is pretty cool, but there is a Mercedes-Benz course specific to their vehicles that you can do,” she said. “I have to wait until I am qualified to complete that because it is a big responsibility with that much electricity. I am also doing an EV course through MTA Queensland.”
At 19-years-old and with just a few months to go before she completes her apprenticeship, Emma has a long career in the industry ahead of her. She hasn’t yet given too much thought as to where that career might lead or what direction it may take, but there is plenty of time, and where she is now with Mercedes is an excellent foundation.
“I haven’t really thought too far down the track,” she said. “Working on a race team would be cool, but I love working in the workshop I am currently in and doing the job I am doing.”
The MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month is proudly sponsored by Spirit Super.
Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (May 2024)
16 May 2024
