Tim Benson sparks school interest in automotive aftermarket careers

Students at Lady Hawkins School in Kington, Herefordshire gained valuable insight into the diverse career opportunities within the UK’s automotive aftermarket, thanks to an engaging talk by Tim Benson, owner of Oldfields Garage.

Addressing Year 10 and 11 pupils last week, Tim shared his journey in the industry, emphasising that success is not determined by background or academic achievements.

Highlighting the automotive sector’s role in everyday life, Tim challenged misconceptions that careers in the industry are limited to mechanics or car sales. Instead, he showcased a broad range of career paths, including diagnostics, engineering, software development, and business management.

“It was fantastic to engage with such an enthusiastic group of students and shed light on the many career paths available in the automotive aftermarket,” said Tim. “With rapid technological advancements, we need bright, passionate young people to help drive the industry forward.”

Drawing on his experience growing up in a family-run garage and pursuing further education, Tim underscored the value of apprenticeships as a gateway to rewarding careers. He explained how these programs offer hands-on experience and industry-recognised qualifications, paving the way for long-term professional growth.

He also highlighted the sector’s significant contribution to the UK economy, which employs over 813,000 people and generates £24.3 billion annually. As the industry evolves, he pointed to emerging technologies such as electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles, artificial intelligence, and advanced diagnostics, all shaping the future of automotive careers.

Encouraging students to explore opportunities in the field, Tim concluded with an open invitation for questions, sparking discussions about the industry’s potential and the exciting prospects it offers.

“It was a fantastic, thought-provoking session on all things automotive,” said Lydia Stevens, Careers Adviser at Lady Hawkins. “Our students and staff truly appreciate employers like Tim who invest in the future of young people."