More than 50 automotive students from Hampshire colleges gathered at Williams Garage in Otterbourne recently for a full day of hands-on technical training delivered by OE manufacturer Schaeffler.
Hosted by award-winning garage owner Peter Whieldon, the session saw Schaeffler Technical Manager Alistair Mason and belt systems specialist Tim Adams take over the workshop to deliver practical, masterclass sessions focused on two of the trade’s most common and technically demanding jobs: double-clutch systems and timing belt replacement.
Students were given a live demonstration of a double-clutch replacement, highlighting the critical tolerances and specialist tooling required for modern dry and wet clutch setups, alongside a comprehensive breakdown of belt system best practice.
The initiative forms part of Schaeffler’s ongoing Wrenches & Wisdom campaign, a programme running for over two years designed to provide free technical training directly to college students and apprentices as they prepare to enter the independent aftermarket.
Peter Whieldon, owner of Williams Garage, opened up his facility for the second consecutive year to host the event, highlighting the vital role independent workshops play in connecting college coursework with the realities of the commercial workshop floor.
Tony Yates, Marketing & Digital Media Executive at Schaeffler, said: “We have been providing free training for students and apprentices via our Wrenches & Wisdom campaign for over two years.
“This is now our second visit to Williams Garage, as we know that Peter, like Schaeffler, is dedicated to providing support to the next generation of professional vehicle technicians.
“This year, we had even more students attend, and it was fantastic to see them so engaged in the presentations and obviously eager to learn.
“We know that we need to continue to support these young people as they continue with their aftermarket careers.
“Without new talent being attracted to our industry the future looks bleak, so we need to invest in them.”
With the aftermarket continuing to face acute recruitment challenges, initiatives that bring component manufacturers, independent garage owners, and local colleges together offer a proven model for attracting and retaining young talent.
Footage from the training day will be released across Schaeffler’s REPXPERT UK social channels over the coming weeks, with technical guides and support resources available via the REPXPERT app and web portal.
