OVER the years the automobile industry has become one of the most dynamic sectors leading in worldwide technology growth. As the technology aspects of the modern vehicle became the rule rather than the expectation, the savvy employee with technology interest rapidly grew their skill set, from the traditional hammer and wrench operative.
The automotive industry had become a most prominent domain for technology and as thousands of vehicles poured into the St. Lucia market on an annual basis, it was obvious that skills training was going to become a significant requirement.
Northwest Limited embraced these changes early on in the development of the company and focused its attention on the need to upgrade skill levels both in its own service department as well as creating greater awareness among the younger generation.
Four years ago Northwest Limited took note of the growing need to develop skills training for the changing market and forged a relationship with the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in an effort to further the opportunities available to the youth. The Northwest Limited Chairman’s Award for Overall Excellence in Automotive Engineering was designed as a means to present apprenticeship opportunities for top Automotive Engineering with the possibility for more permanent employment Mr. Rohan Jn Baptiste programme facilitator at the College said:
“The opportunity this award presents to our automotive engineering students goes far beyond the winner of the Chairman’s Prize. Our students now have the opportunity to see the practical applications to the course work and have the advantage of the practical experience offered with the apprenticeship at Northwest. Presently eight past students are working for the company.”
Head of the Technical Team at Northwest Limited Mr. Glen Augustine has already undergone several training courses both in St. Lucia and overseas and is pleased to see the expansion of the interest in the automotive engineering areas. He said: “I myself am a product of considerable investment in training and lately we have seen growth in the interest from young ladies who see a real future in the industry. Presently one of our own service representatives and our service advisor are women who hail from this programme.”
Managing Director of Northwest Limited Mr. Randal Bain said, “We have always placed a priority on the upgrading skills training as it relates to brand support. In fact many of our technicians are expected to undergo several courses online and overseas as we seek to support the constantly improving vehicle product imported into St. Lucia.”