Ever since he built the engine for his Subaru at 13 years old, Harrison Lockyer has had a knack for all things auto.
The 20-year-old Camden lad grew up surrounded by broken cars, with his father Paul running an auto shop in the south-west Sydney suburb.
In 2019, Harrison started his mechanics apprenticeship with his old man. Bright eyed and ready to dive deeper into the world of mechanics – Harrison also sought to draw upon a resource that specialised in helping auto apprentices.
“I’ve always wanted to work on cars … dad brought me on, and that’s when I found Apprenticeships Are Us,” he said.
Here to help
At ever turn of Harrison’s apprenticeship, Apprentices Are Us has been there to help.
“They’ve supplied uniforms, and been able to chime in with any advice I may need,” he said.
“They’re super easy going – pretty much whatever I’ve needed during my apprenticeship, they’ve been able to help out.”
Apprenticeships Are Us enables automotive apprentices nationwide to pursue their dreams regardless of financial/socio-economic background, schooling level or other social disadvantages.
The not-for-profit operation provides plenty of support to apprentices, such as supplying correct PPE equipment, employability and life skills training as well as on-the-job support, taking a hands-on approach to supporting the next generation.
A new spark
Harrison completed his mechanics apprenticeship last year, but with his dad acquiring a neighbouring auto electrical business, he decided to expand his resume.
“It’s been really interesting, there’s a lot of changes you have to get used to, but it’s going well now,” Harrison said.
“There’s so much new stuff to learn about cars I have to learn for auto electrical … it’s a completely different line of work.”
Thanks to Apprentices Are Us, Harrison has the support he needed to undertake this exciting new chapter right from the get-go.
“They’ve been brilliant,” he said.
“Ever since we got in touch with them, they’ve been in good contact with me and checking in to make sure everything’s good.
“As soon as I mentioned I was going into auto electrical, we signed straight back up and they’ve been helping me with that apprenticeship.”
Find out how Apprenticeships Are Us can help you or your workshop! Visit here or contact 9821 6900 and info@apprus.com.au for more information.