In the second of our two parts series on next generation jobbers, we asked Stephen Squires from Colonial Auto Parts and Allan Wood from Ideal Supply their perspectives when it comes to career progress, developing new skills and how they see the industry evolving.

In asking what some of the highlights of their career have been so far, Allan Wood said that “having the opportunity to be promoted and work for a progressive employer that cares about its staff and the customers is a key one. Ideal Supply has given me opportunities that I could not have imagined when I started my career.”

Overcoming stigmas

Stephen Squires explained that even today, “I think there is [still] a stigma surrounding the automotive industry as a whole, which for young people is completely unwarranted. People see being a mechanic as a dirty job where you will have trouble doing well and this stigma tends to extend into the rest of the automotive industry. Growing up, and since starting a career in this sector, I have spent a lot of time around people who have made good careers in various areas and many of them have done very well for themselves. Despite the stigma surrounding the industry, people can be very successful in any sector of it. I think showing young people that they can succeed and make a career in the automotive industry is incredibly important as the demographics skew heavily towards older men and while there will of course be changes to the industry moving forward, it is certainly not going to disappear and young people are going to have to enter the industry to fill the void when those who are older and have been working in the sector for many years eventually retire. 

Regarding what our interviewees felt the most valuable thing they’ve learned so far, Allan Wood explained that it was important to “never stop learning and don’t take for granted the relationships that you develop in this industry.” 

Benefits and drawbacks

Stephen Squires added that “having an older workforce carries significant benefits in that there are a lot of people who can provide guidance to the next generation and advise them on how to move forward.” He also explained however, that there can also be drawbacks, particularly if people are stuck in their ways. “Sometimes you will come across the mindset that ‘we’ve always done it this way,’ and when you find that attitude, a lot of technological benefits that people could avail themselves of are ignored, which is one of the more frustrating parts of the job.” 

He noted that technology should allow people to automatically make decisions in the most efficient way possible, “but I have found that frequently people will do things in the way that they always have simply because ‘that’s how we do it.” Squires said that such an approach causes the industry to fall short when it comes to technological advancements and doesn’t encourage those within it to improve their existing way of doing business by adapting to new trends or ideas. This does however present opportunities for young people to enter and use it to their benefit.”

Career advice

With that in mind, we asked both Allan and Stephen if they had any additional thoughts regarding a career in the automotive parts distribution sector and the aftermarket. Allan said it was important to “pass along the knowledge that someone has shared with you. The industry needs mentorship.” In terms of giving advice to young people considering a career in the automotive parts sector, Stephen Squires said that “ultimately, I hope that people see our industry as a viable career option, and that those who are currently in the industry do their best to communicate this. I am excited to continue to move forward in my career,” he said.

Allan Wood stressed that it was important to give yourself time. “This business cannot be learned overnight. Start at an entry level position and take learning opportunities as they come along. Our customers can be the best teachers; while being honest and reliable gives credibility not only for ourselves, but the industry as a whole.”