Kwik Fit has officially launched its Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Programme 2025, bringing apprentice training back to the region for the first time in nearly two decades.
The programme represents what the company describes as "a truly landmark moment" for both the business and the wider tyre industry in Northern Ireland, with senior management emphasising the personal significance of nurturing the next generation of automotive technicians.
Speaking about the initiative, Kwik Fit management highlighted the diverse career pathways available to the new apprentices, noting that the industry has seen talented individuals progress from entry-level tyre technician roles through to centre management, regional leadership positions and beyond.
Just two weeks into their training, the apprentices had the opportunity to demonstrate their newly acquired skills to Ian Andrew, chief executive of the National Tyre Distributors Association (NTDA). The visit provided an early indication of the programme's effectiveness, with the apprentices' confidence and technical ability drawing praise.
The training programme has been developed in partnership with ETEL Training department, with trainers Ross Drakeford and Dasos Michaelides delivering the technical instruction. Kwik Fit's recruitment team, including Megan Putnam, also played a key role in assembling the inaugural cohort.
Commenting on the programme's launch, Kwik Fit management stressed that investing in apprenticeships extends beyond business benefits. "Investing in the next generation isn't just good business – it's the right thing to do," the company stated.
The return of apprenticeship training to Kwik Fit's Northern Ireland operations comes at a time when the automotive aftermarket continues to face skills shortages, making programmes that develop young technicians increasingly vital for the industry's long-term sustainability.
The initiative underscores Kwik Fit's commitment to technical talent within its own ranks, providing structured career development opportunities for young people entering the automotive services sector in Northern Ireland.
The relaunch aligns with a wider push to celebrate and retain talent. Tyre News recently reported on NTDA’s 2025 finalists and winners, where apprentice accolades were a focal point, another signal that structured training and mentorship are reshaping the entry pipeline.
Tagged with: Kwik Fit apprenticeships, Northern Ireland training, tyre technician careers, Mallusk training centre, NTDA, skills shortage, ADAS calibration, EV service training, tyre retail, workforce development
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