Minister Hails Bermuda Motors Apprenticeship
Minister of Home Affairs Michael Fahy has hailed the partnership between Bermuda Motors and the National Training Board [NTB] in securing the employment of two Bermudian apprentice mechanics.
Tyree Armstrong, 22 and Jabari Hollis, 20, have been recently employed by Bermuda Motors. Both former Berkeley Institute graduates, Mr. Armstrong and Mr. Hollis started work this month after completing an 18-month course in Associate of Science in Auto Collision Repair Technology at the New England Institute of Technology [NEIT] in Rhode Island. The NTB provided full financial support for the course.
The NEIT course, counts as part of Mr. Armstrong’s and Mr. Hollis’ four-year apprenticeship with Bermuda Motors. The course covered paint and body work, structural and non-structural repairs, and electrical. During the next year they will be working towards certification by the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence and qualification as Junior Mechanics.
Atinori Butterfield, who completed the same programme six years ago, will mentor the apprentices. Mr. Butterfield is Body and Paint Workshop Controller and Estimator at Bermuda Motors and is being trained for a future management position within the company.
“The Government remains committed to providing employment opportunities for Bermudians. The partnership between Bermuda Motors and the National Training Board bodes well for the placement of qualified professionals in the automotive industry,” Minister Fahy said
Kenneth Bartram, Training and Assessment Officer of the Department of Workforce Development, said Government had partnered with automotive companies two years ago to try and reverse a decline in Bermudians entering the industry.
Mr. Bartram explained: “We did a survey of people in the industry and found that the number of people retiring in 5 to 10 years or who were on work permits, was far higher than the number of apprentices coming into the industry.
“We’re working to make sure those interested in the profession get into the right schools, get experience and in 10 years are at the top of their game and are able to move into those positions.”
Darwin Symonds, After Sales Manager, Paint and Body Shop at Bermuda Motors, said the apprenticeship programme and the support of the NTB was crucial for the future of the industry.
“People with these skill sets are in demand and there are a lot of opportunities in the industry for Bermudians. This programme is really important if we are to bring on young Bermudians because they can’t get this level of training on the Island.”
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Congratulation to both young men, Mr. Tyree Armstrong and Mr.Jabari Hollis with having attained their goal as a motor mechanic. Also thanks to Bermuda Motor and National Training Board for helping each step of the way…
Well done gentlemen on your achievements and the work you put in to reach this stage.
Thank you BDA Motors for offering these positions to young Bermudians.
Thank you to the Government and NTB for identifying such opportunities in the labor force and providing full financing to these gentlemen so that they can begin their careers.
Well done young men and all the best in your positions! Bermuda’s Future!
great news such young man with a great career
Great job gents
Congratulations to my nephew Tyree Armstrong.. Keep up the great work. So proud of you! Congrats to the other fella as well.. Good luck and much Success in your future training…Very Nice for the Government to recognize young gentlemen and give them training to start their careers.
Keep up Great Work, Both of you!