The Original Equipment Suppliers Aftermarket Association has announced the launch of OESAA Academy Live, a series of free-to-attend events dotted around the UK, aiming to strengthen the skills of today’s technicians and support the education of the next generation.
Held at IMI-approved colleges, the first event will take place at Lincoln College on Friday 13th and Saturday 14th January, with instalments at Castleford College following on Friday 24th and Saturday 25th February.
The format
During Friday’s session, participating OESAA members will hold intimate seminars for apprentices. These will be purposely designed to help further their learning and prepare them for the real-world workshop environment. Presenters will also illustrate their career paths, to show potential routes and roles in the industry.
Meanwhile, on Saturday, working technicians will be able to immerse themselves in 45-minute sessions with those same OESAA members. These will be devised to offer a ‘taster’ of training packages directly available from OEMs.
Who will be there?
Brembo, DENSO, HELLA, Laser Tools, Schaeffler and VARTA UK have all confirmed their attendance at both opening events, such has been the appetite for OESAA members to highlight the latest technologies and products in their respective categories, as well as offer best practice techniques – whether that be diagnosis or installation.
Brembo’s Siti Abdullah and Dale Reynolds will focus primarily on the various technological advancements of braking. Vehicles are more powerful and heavier than ever, yet the industry demands components be lighter and kinder to the environment – Siti and Dale will discuss whether traditional servicing methods are still valid.
More on the agenda
DENSO’s Mike Sadler will present the latest on spark plugs in Lincoln and glow plugs in Castleford respectively, while Schaeffler REPXPERT, Andy Vaux, will offer a masterclass in INA engine systems.
Meanwhile, Ashley Craig from VARTA UK will deliver battery know-how on real-life, everyday challenges faced in the workshop. If technicians can’t find the battery on-board, don’t know how to program/code a replacement battery, or are unsure which technology to fit, Ashley will be there to demonstrate how garages can turn a profit from batteries.
Experts from Laser Tools will also be present, opening the doors to their always popular tech van. They’ll showcase the brand’s vast array of specialist, innovative tools and be ready to discuss visitors’ questions and needs.
OESAA Chairman, Nigel Morgan, commented on the initiative: “As an organisation, we have consistently demonstrated our commitment and passion in bolstering the technical and business acumen of technicians. Autoinform Live, whether hosted in the UK or Ireland, is always a well-supported event, but we are now ready to expand and take this successful model on the road – inspiring both apprentices and working professionals.
“I urge technicians of all ages and experience levels to seize the moment, take the opportunity that’s in front of them and sign-up to our roadshow.”
