Nissan launches a motoring apprenticeship scheme

A new type of motoring apprenticeship by Nissan Ireland is now open for applications. It’s using the traditional apprenticeship model, but anchoring it in specialised industry training, which sees Nissan Ireland mentoring the apprentices.

Nissan has been working on this programme for two years and the apprenticeship gives candidates the motoring technology know-how as well as the traditional skills of motor mechanics.

The company wants to equip apprentices appropriately for the demands of an industry brand like theirs – which is very focused on technology.

“We want to immerse apprentices in product knowledge and best practice from day one,” says Ken Ward, technical and training manager with Nissan Ireland.

“We’re instilling in them an understanding of technology. The earlier you introduce apprentices to new technology, the easier it is for them to understand future technology. We want them to understand the Nissan brand and how Nissan works.”

Interested candidates should research how much of the training received is specific to Nissan motoring and if it is as applicable in other sectors of the industry – in order to keep their options open.

Nissan Ireland is keen that the apprentices it trains will stay with Nissan.

“We want brand knowledge, dealership loyalty and loyalty to customers,” says Ken Ward. That’s because Nissan is trying to ensure there is never a shortage of medium-term skilled labour in the motor industry.

“Like was the case during 2005, 2006 and 2007, when on a weekly basis we would receive calls asking if we know of any good technicians,” explains Ken. “But never again will we have someone say: ‘We can’t get good enough staff’.”

The industry training from Nissan is weaved into the normal traditional apprenticeship, which alternates between off-the-job training in an education centre and on-the-job training at a Nissan facility.

Course structure

An apprenticeship generally lasts four years, which includes three different periods spent in off-the-job training. Generally the first off-the-job training phase will take place in an Education and Training Board (ETB) training centre, while the subsequent off-the-job training phases will take place in an institute of technology. Weekly gross wages for motor industry apprentices range from €195 in phase two to €528 in fourth year.

On successful completion of their apprenticeship, the top-performing graduate will be sponsored by Nissan Ireland to study a relevant third-level degree, such as the Automotive Management and Technology degree at DIT.

The programme is also focused on developing the concept that an apprenticeship leads to a career, not a job. Ken wants there to be a change in how current mechanics think of apprenticeships.

He says training is not just about instruction in the mechanical aspects of apprenticeships, but about moulding apprentices into the next industry leaders. Mechanics can progress to the position of workshop foreman, then to service advisor and then service manager.

“At Nissan Ireland we feel it is time we redefine the role of apprentices in industry and provide parity of esteem of the apprenticeship model to traditional career path routes,” explains Ken. “What this means, put simply, is respect for apprenticeships and apprentices. We’re trying to change the stigma – from day one apprentices are treated with respect. For me, attitude to apprenticeships and apprentices is not completely acceptable. We’re trying to encourage our dealers to pay these guys a bit more. We need to let them know they’re contributing. We want to change the perception from the inside and out.”

Ken relates this back to his own experience.

“I was lucky, I worked for a really good mentor in a good dealership. I’m here because I got a good apprenticeship.”

For the applicants who don’t get a place with Nissan, the company will work with the Society of the Irish Motor Industry to find places outside its own network where candidates can be placed.

“We will work with the rest of the industry to place them,” notes Ken. This seems quite commendable, but Ken notes: “The motor industry was good to me. We’re just giving back what we got, we’re paying it forward.”

In terms of advice in the area of applications and interviews, Ken says: “Just be yourself. Answer the questions honestly.”

Nissan says there will be jobs for the apprentices upon completion of their apprenticeship, with the new scheme expected to create 100 jobs over the next four years. Nissan Ireland has a network of 39 dealerships employing over 1,100 people nationwide.

How to apply

Applications will be accepted until 9 March and are open to anyone over the age of 16. Apply directly to Nissan Generation Next Apprentice Academy, Nissan Ireland, Cedar House, Parkwest Business Park, Dublin 12 or to generationnext@nissan.ie