Conducting the training was George Holmes, AkzoNobel Automotive & Aerospace Coatings’ Technical Sales Representative. The industry veteran targeted various processes such as three-layer application and spot repair, using the Sikkens Colorbuild Plus primer system wet-on-wet, Sikkens Autobase Plus basecoat and Sikkens Autoclear Plus HS clearcoat. These were designed to challenge the participants and help further their skill and knowledge levels in readiness for industry life.
“These students are already producing impressive results,” Holmes said.
“And their attitude is spot-on: everyone followed each instruction carefully and they listened intently for the full three days.”
According to Holmes, ongoing training for the collision repair industry’s more junior members is critical.
“Our TAFE-based training is a regular part of our education and training calendar and it’s essential for one simple reason: these students are the future of our industry.”
It’s a view shared by Dubbo TAFE Western’s Peter Allen, head teacher for automotive vehicle refinishing. Supporting his belief in staying up-to-date with the latest trends and product knowledge was the fact that Allen and his teaching colleagues also participated in the AkzoNobel Sikkens training event.
Allen was impressed with Holmes’ skill as an instructor.
“George’s skills as a facilitator were obvious by his ability to engage the students and to communicate technical elements in clear terms.”
One of the students, Luke Phelps from Primmers Smash Repairs in Dubbo, was equally inspired.
“It’s not something I’ll forget any time soon. It was very educational and I learned a lot about colour blending and coverage,” he said.
For many of the student participants, the Dubbo TAFE training session with AkzoNobel Sikkens was their first encounter with the company’s products. Holmes’ training demonstrated the importance of workshop efficiency through reduced material use and faster repair times, features which both the Sikkens Colorbuild Plus and the Sikkens Autoclear Plus HS are renowned for.
Over the last 30 years, Holmes has seen a number of shifts in the collision repair industry. He witnessed the move from acrylic to two-pack products and knows the importance of keeping pace with current developments, such as the increasing transition from solvent-based to waterborne products.
“Our current crop of apprentices holds the keys to our industry’s future so it’s absolutely vital we train them in everything we know.”
“You’re never too old – or too young – to learn,” Holmes said.
For more information about AkzoNobel Sikkens call 03 9644 1711 or visit www.sikkenscr.com.au