Tyre Fitter & Repairer (Heavy Vehicle) Profile
As every young kid does, I grew up with a fairly strong passion for cars. Strangely enough, I didn’t originally go straight into the industry. After eventually completing year 11, I got a job working in a paper factory as a bookbinder. After 3 years I completed my apprenticeship, but I knew this just wasn’t for me. The excitement and passion just wasn’t there!
I first got my break into the automotive industry when a friend of mine, who was already working as a tyre fitter and repairer at a local garage, mentioned they were looking for some casual workers to provide a bit of assistance. I asked him if it mattered that I hadn’t had any prior experience in the industry and he said it doesn’t matter as long as I’m keen to learn.
So I was able to begin my trade working on the odd job here and there, but I gradually got involved in some more advanced stuff. Since that time I am now a fully qualified tyre fitter and repairer. It is easy to see that this industry is really heading in a good direction. The workshops are amazing, and the types of technology that we work with are simply mind blowing. It’s funny how one little break leads to a lot of opportunities, and now I couldn’t be happier. I could only see the positive – I was given the opportunity to learn a lot more about cars, plus there was a fair bit more cash on offer.
The work I do
I am currently located at a local suburban garage where I primarily involve myself with the tyre fitting of heavy industrial vehicles. The duties often include inspection to determine preferred repair action, repairing tyres and tubes, selecting tyres and rims for particular vehicles and balancing of tyres and wheels.
The biggest change over the past few years is the developments in technology. Computers have aided the process enormously, so we use them a fair bit just to ensure all of the measurements and angles are precise.
My workplace
In terms of set up, the workplace is pretty good, very efficient. There is plenty of space, and with the new OH&S standards everything is kept in top-notch shape. Organisation is the key nowadays! It makes the biggest impression on our customers, and makes everyone feel more welcomed.
The staff here are all great value; we are all pretty close mates. They have been here a bit longer than me, so they all have that extra bit of experience. That’s excellent for me because I can really learn from them, and they are great with advice and teaching me how to go about things.
We often socialise outside of work, which is great to establish that friendly atmosphere, and this really shines through in our work. Now, I can say I’m genuinely excited about turning up to work each day.
Education and training
I originally dropped out of school during year 10. I lost a bit of interest at the time and felt as if I needed a change of scenery and I worked as a brikie's labourer. I decided to head back to school a year later and after a few attempts I was able to finally complete year 11.
Since then I attained my Certificate II in Automotive (Tyre Fitting & Repair – Heavy).
I was never a big fan of school, so I cannot see myself heading back there.
I love my job – there is very little paper involved, and basically
I’m working with a lot of hands-on stuff at my own pace.
>> course/qualification
Why I love this industry
Working within a fairly notable garage we get a lot of customers coming through. This provides us with enormous opportunities to work on such a variety of cars. I’ve had the chance to fit and repair tyres for some pretty fine cars. I thrive off the enjoyment of it all.
In my short-term future, I see myself continuing on in my current job. But down the track I would definitely love to be managing a workshop and looking after the staff while maintaining a hands-on involvement.