Jamahl Joell will benefit from a partnership between HWP and the National Training Board ? helping him to travel overseas to partake in automotive maintenance courses.

Jamahl, 18, was just accepted to participate in the Automotive Technology Apprenticeship. After spending nine months working at HWP he will head to Barbados to further his training and eventually have the opportunity to earn more money.

Jamahl will go to the Samuel Jackman Prescod Polytechnic, a community college, and complete an accredited training programme in automotive maintenance over the next three years.

In order to be eligible for the programme, Jamahl had to work at HWP for three months before the company could recommend him to the NTB for further training.

?We are thrilled to have Jamahl on our team, and we look forward to watching his progress in the months ahead,? Jonathan Brewin, HWP president and CEO, told Young Observer. ?This is a great opportunity, both for the company and for Jamahl.?

As an apprentice, Jamahl will work in the Mechanical Division at HWP under the supervision of an automotive mechanic. He will learn about vehicle engines, body work and electrical outfitting. During his apprenticeship he will also use diagnostic equipment to assess what is wrong with a vehicle.

Jamahl will perform minor auto services on his own and will be exposed to more complicated procedures under the supervision of HWP A-1 Mechanic Adriaan Webber.

The programme lasts four years and during holidays Jamahl will be expected to return to Bermuda and work at HWP. The company has also agreed to pay a portion of his living expenses while he is in Barbados.

HWP and the NTB decided to offer such an apprenticeship because there is a need to train young Bermudian mechanics. Currently, a majority of people involved in automotive maintenance are overseas workers.

One of the important aspects of the Automotive Technology Apprenticeship is that it focuses on education and hands-on, real world experience. NTB executive director Michael Stowe said the apprenticeship programme illustrated a commitment to programmes that foster and support the development of technical skills for Bermudians. On top of the training Jamahl will also return to the Island in a better financial position. His new qualifications will enable him to gain a higher paying job. HWP has also committed to helping him achieve additional qualifications if he wants to.

HWP COO Alan Brooks believes that Jamahl will be a great asset to the company and country upon his return.

?There is a real need in Bermuda for highly skilled automotive technicians,? Mr. Brooks said.

He urges more students to take part in the programme.

?If you are ambitious and want to experience a stimulating career in the automotive industry, or if you are a parent whose child has shown an interest in mechanics, I encourage you to explore the opportunities and benefits that come with apprenticeship,? he said. ?A career as an automotive technician offers endless possibilities for professional growth and development.?

Mr. Brewin echoed his comments and said young Bermudians should really consider auto mechanics as a career.

?Our apprenticeship programme is a great place to start,? he added.