The Motor Trades Association of Queensland’s Auto Camp is helping high school students learn new skills and discover new career possibilities as they move towards the end of their schooling.

The three-day hands-on school holiday program offers teenagers aged between 14-17 the opportunity to experience the automotive industry, many for the first time, as they come to terms with what a career in the motor trades could look like.

With school out for another year, the December school holidays proved to be the perfect time to hold the final offering of the course for 2019, with yet another fully booked class of students making their way to the MTA Institute, Eight Mile Plains (RTO No.31529), for three-days of immersive learning.

Samuel Higgs (15) was one student in attendance looking to check out what the automotive industry had to offer.

“I thought it would be good to come along and learn some new skills,” said Samuel on his decision to participate in Auto Camp.

“I have an interest in cars but wasn’t so sure if that would translate into a career. But it has been super interesting. I really enjoyed the spray painting and the panel beating was something I’ve never tried.”

Fraser Johnson (14) was another student with a similar experience.

“I really wanted to learn some new skills that I could use for when I’m older when I work on my cars, as that’s what I’m interested in,” said Fraser.

“Auto Camp has been great for that. It’s been interesting, and I’ve learnt a lot. My favourite part was learning about the engines.”

Auto Camp has also proven that it’s not just for those with an interest in working in the automotive industry. It is also for those with an interest in design, manufacturing, engineering, as well as those who enjoy learning about cars but maybe more as a hobby than a career.

Thorne Lyons (14) is one of these students.

“I love cars and love learning about them, but I want to be a doctor. Pretty much my whole family are mechanics or work with cars, even my Grandma is building a Kombi right now.

“I just wanted to learn a bit more so I can help out my family members and Auto Camp was perfect for that.

“I particularly enjoyed learning about the electronics, as it’s not something I’ve experienced too much. But it’s only going to become more common in the future and getting the chance to learn about it now was really helpful,” said Thorne.

As for what the future holds for Samuel and Fraser, both were keen to keep their options open, but both agree that Auto Camp was a great experience.

“After completing the course, I would say I am definitely more interested in looking at a career connected to the automotive industry,” said Samuel.

This Advancing Apprentices Fund initiative is proudly funded by the Queensland Government.