JUNIOR TECHNICIAN - For nearly 20 years and over two employments I have worked with the team at Simon Lucas Mitsubishi. My journey started in 2001 when I started as a service groomer, my role was ensuring all the vehicles through the workshop were cleaned and vacuumed after the technicians had completed their work. This was 11 years of hard, but enjoyable work. It’s the before and after that was the most rewarding bit. From here I decided to give things a try elsewhere but soon I ended up back at Simon Lucas Mitsubishi. The Service Manager Colin called to say they had an opening in the workshop for a workshop assistant. Initially, I hesitated, doubting my ability to take on the role. However, Colin's persistence paid off, so, there I was back at home base, but now in a proper embroidered uniform. I first started assisting where possible, observing, and learning the basics. Putting cars on the hoist, dropping the oil, and obtaining the parts for the technician. Over the years my workshop foreman and Colin encouraged me a bit more and a bit more. Now I’m the lead hand in our Tyre Centre changing all the tyres and carrying out wheel alignments. Amidst these tasks, I perform pre-delivery inspections and fit genuine accessories for all our new vehicles. I have recently been given the opportunity to help new juniors coming into the workshop upskill before starting their apprenticeships. This middle leadership role is so satisfying, seeing people come through the ranks and now be mentoring them myself is what makes every day at Simon Lucas Mitsubishi a day I’m happy to be at work. For me, it’s the camaraderie and team that make the journey so rewarding.
