Following on from Hayden Bird’s success story, next up in our National Apprenticeship Week celebration is Reece Williams, who has completed his journey from apprentice to fully qualified M.E.T. (Mechanical, Electrical, and Trim) Technician at Individual Specialist Cars.
What does an M.E.T. Technician do?
M.E.T. (Mechanical, Electrical, and Trim) Technicians specialise in diagnosing, stripping, and rebuilding vehicles after accidents. With modern cars featuring Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), hybrid technology, and complex electrical systems, M.E.T. Apprenticeships provide critical training for future technicians.
These Apprenticeships provide a valuable route into the UK automotive repair industry; with hard work, dedication and commitment, allowing aspiring technicians to develop hands-on skills, gain industry-recognised qualifications, and build successful careers. Reece’s journey highlights the impact of structured training, the importance of hands on vehicle diagnostics and repair, and learning from your mentors.
To gain insight into his experience, We caught up with Reece Williams to discuss his apprenticeship journey, the skills he's gained and his ambitions as a newly qualified M.E.T. Technician.
Q&A with Reece
What inspired you to pursue a career as a Vehicle M.E.T. Technician?
"I always loved cars, but wanted a different route from being a mechanic so went into being an M.E.T technician."
Why did you choose to complete your apprenticeship at Individual Specialist Cars?
"The calibre of cars here is so high, being able to walk into work with some of the rarest and special cars is something anyone into cars wants. The quality of work is something I wanted to be able to achieve."
How did you balance the study and practical work aspects of your apprenticeship?
"That is the best part of an apprenticeship, being able to learn from college but also while being able to do the job physically. It’s great to be able to practice things learnt from college in work."
What has been the most rewarding part of your Apprenticeship experience?
"Being able to take skills home and use them to help others, with small problems with a car or just helping to advise them with what to do."
Were there any challenges you faced during your training and how did you overcome them?
"The biggest challenges were the assessments for me and being able to pass them was a big hurdle. So I had to revise the theory and practice the practical things at work but they took the most effort to get through them."
Can you describe a project or moment during your apprenticeship that you’ re particularly proud of?
"One project that I am proud of was a Tesla that had to have the entire front-end stripping to nothing and being able to put that back together in the time I did and seeing it drive out the workshop was a good moment."
How has qualifying as a Vehicle M.E.T Technician changed your perspective on the automotive industry?
"It's made me see how hard working in the automotive industry is and how many different aspects of the automotive industry there are."
What advise would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship within the M.E.T. department?
"Work hard but take your time with learning what is needed and the process of stripping and refitting will come to you in time."
What skills do you think are most important for a Vehicle M.E.T. Technician to have?
"Being able to see things from a different angle and being able to problem solve. These help when trying to figure out how things come apart and go back together."
Would you recommend this career path to others, and why?
"Yes I would because it’s a great way to learn how cars work and gain the skills necessary to see finer details when it comes to a cars finish."
What are your future career aspirations now that you’ve qualified?
"My plan is to be part of a team that builds low production cars but to a high standard and this apprenticeship has helped me towards that by giving me the skills I need and by showing me the high standards I need to work towards."
It’s important to recognise the crucial role apprenticeships play in shaping the future of the UK automotive repair industry. These programs not only equip individuals with specialist skills but also ensure the industry has a pipeline of highly trained professionals to meet growing demand.
Key benefits of an automotive apprenticeship:
✔️ Practical, hands-on training with the latest vehicle technologies
✔️ Industry-recognised qualifications
✔️ Career progression in a sector that values skilled technicians
Educational institutions like Sandwell College and Training providers such IMI:Institute of Motor Industry provide structured learning, while Employers such as Individual Specialist Cars offer real-world experience working on prestige and high-performance vehicles.
