Former Stamford College student

What I Wish I Knew
Why I chose this path: Started on cars at college, but trucks are more interesting
First surprises: The size of truck parts – much bigger and heavier than cars
Harder than expected: The physical side – lifting and handling larger components
Better than expected: The variety – trucks, trailers, and vans keep it interesting
Early mistake: Missed a ball joint during an MOT – second checks caught it
What makes a good apprentice: Being keen to learn and staying engaged
Advice for students: Be mentally strong – the banter can take getting used to, but it’s give and take

Quick Take
Job in one sentence: Hands-on, challenging, and always different
Biggest myth: People judge us based on car mechanic stereotypes
What college didn’t teach me: Everything. College focused on older vehicles – real work is very different
Where in 3–5 years: Specialising in diagnostics and electrics, especially electric trucks (mainly DAFs)

Real Talk
Toughest day: During Covid – late shifts helping on the pad and moving pallets
Feeling out of depth: It happens, but you get support and different opinions
What keeps you going: The satisfaction of fault-finding and solving problems