The Tip Mechanic Academy will enable mechanics to become Tip certified in nine months instead of the standard three to four years for heavy vehicle certification.
Hiske Damhuis, chief human resource officer, said: “Mechanics are the unsung heroes of our industry, and we rely on them to serve our customers and keep their fleet on the road. The Tip Mechanic Academy is a great opportunity to attract new talent, and the fast track learning ensures trainees get to put their new knowledge into practice in just nine months and receive remuneration as if they graduated from a four-year education programme.”
The programme covers a range of topics, including trailer maintenance, diagnostics, repair and safety. Trainees will also receive practical training at Tip's facilities, working on real trailers under the guidance of experienced mechanic mentors.
Combining instructor-lead, e-learning and hands-on training, trainees will have the chance to learn from Tip experts and bring what they learn into practice. The training programme will be limited from eight to twelve trainees per class. Graduates of the Tip Mechanic Academy will have access to further training and advancement within the organisation, either as a workshop supervisor/manager, or a technician. Upon successful completion of the training, all trainees will also be offered the opportunity to join the annual Global Mechanic Team Competition.
The UK academy will open in the autumn in Nuneaton, Warwickshire. In addition. Tip is welcoming applications from budding mechanics that will be ultimately based at branches in Liverpool, Manchester, Hull, Southampton and Lichfield.
During the programme, trainees will be paid a starting salary of £25,000 to £29,000 depending on experience and location, with a salary commitment of up to £31,000 upon successful completion of the training. Trainees will also receive a comprehensive toolbox worth more than £1,000 containing the latest tools.