LSH Auto has recently introduced a new cohort of 20 apprentices across its locations in Stockport, Whitefield, Birmingham, Solihull, and Tamworth. Known as the ‘Class of 24,’ this group represents the latest investment by LSH Auto in nurturing the next generation of automotive professionals.
Diverse Range of Apprenticeships
The ‘Class of 24’ includes apprentices pursuing various career paths within the automotive industry. These include three-year apprenticeships for roles such as Light Vehicle Technicians, Retail Parts Advisors, Paint Technicians, and Mechanical, Electrical, and Trim (MET) Technicians. Additionally, some apprentices are engaged in 18-month programmes to become Customer Service Experts, Star Experts, and Marketing Executives.
Spotlight on New Recruits: Danielle Reynolds and Jack Davis
One of the new Light Vehicle Technician apprentices, Danielle Reynolds, shares her journey from being a dog walker to pursuing a career in the automotive industry. Danielle reflects on her decision to apply for the Mercedes-Benz Apprenticeship: “I love tinkering with cars and always wanted to learn more about them. I’d also really like to be a successful female in a male-dominated industry. Every single person at LSH Auto has been so lovely and helpful from day one at my induction. I’ve really enjoyed getting my hands dirty in week one.”
Jack Davis, another Light Vehicle Technician Apprentice, also expressed his enthusiasm for joining LSH Auto. “Originally, I was going to study mechanics at college, but then I saw the Mercedes-Benz apprenticeship. I’ve always been a fan of Mercedes-Benz and wanted to work here in some way or another. I thought an apprenticeship would be the perfect way in,” said Jack.
Jack’s journey into the apprenticeship began when he met members of the LSH Auto and Mercedes-Benz teams at a careers open day at his school in May. His application process was thorough, involving multiple interviews and a tour of the facilities at Mercedes-Benz of Stockport. Reflecting on his first day, Jack said, “I was very nervous when I came for my induction yesterday, it’s a new job and it’s a big company, but as soon as I entered the building, everyone was really welcoming. They made me feel part of the Mercedes-Benz and LSH Auto family straight away.”
Partnership with Mercedes-Benz Academy
Many of the apprenticeships offered by LSH Auto are in partnership with the Mercedes-Benz Academy in Milton Keynes. This state-of-the-art facility is renowned for providing exceptional training through experienced coaches and mentors. Each year, Mercedes-Benz receives over 10,000 applications from across the UK, narrowing these down to around 250 successful applicants. LSH Auto is proud to support 27 of these places this year, with some positions still available in this cohort.
Industry Collaboration with Bolton College
In addition to its partnership with the Mercedes-Benz Academy, LSH Auto’s Stockport facility, which houses one of the UK’s largest Body, Paint & Preparation Centres, has formed a valuable collaboration with Bolton College. This partnership, now in its third year, offers specialised apprenticeships for Paint Technicians, Panel Beaters, and MET Technicians.
Becky Pitt, Talent Acquisition Specialist at LSH Auto, noted, “We have been working with Bolton College for three years and have formed a fantastic partnership whereby we as a company can contribute to the learning requirements of their apprentices.”
Commitment to Developing Future Talent
With the addition of this year’s intake, LSH Auto now has 74 apprentices working across its Mercedes-Benz dealerships in six locations. Tracy Ellam, Operations Director for LSH Auto, emphasized the importance of investing in young talent: “It’s so important for us to have a h2 apprentice intake each year and to invest in their development. It’s wonderful to see them grow over the years, and I’m especially pleased to see young women joining our business.”
How to Apply
For those interested in pursuing an apprenticeship with LSH Auto, further information can be obtained by emailing Becky Pitt at becky.pitt@lshauto.co.uk or by visiting LSH Auto’s recruitment page.
