What are your future career aspirations now that you've qualified?
"My aspirations are to learn as much as I can and develop my skills to my best ability and carry on painting cars at Individual Sepcialist Cars."
From Apprentice to Fully Qualified Paint Technician
Yaz Beattie • February 10, 2025
Celebrating Success During National Apprenticeship Week:
Hayden Bird's Journey
As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2025, we're proud to showcase the achievements of our apprentices who have successfully completed their training and qualified as skilled technicians. This week highlights the value of apprenticeships in shaping careers and strengthening industries, particularly within the UK Automotive Accident Repair sector.
One such success story is Hayden Bird, who started as an Apprentice Vehicle Paint Technician and is now a fully qualified professional with us at Individual Specialist Cars. His journey is a testament to the value of hands-on training and industry expertise.
To learn more about his journey, we spoke with Hayden about his experience, the challenges he overcame, and what it means to be a fully qualified Vehicle Paint Technician at Individual Specialist Cars.
Q&A with Hayden
What inspired you to pursue a career as a Vehicle Paint Technician?
"I decided to do this as my Uncle is a painter and I learnt the the passion for wanting to paint cars from him."
Why did you choose to complete your apprenticeship at individual specialist cars?
"I decided to choose Individual Specialist Cars because I saw that Individual was a very high standard place and I thought I would learn a lot from the place."
How did you balance the study and practical work aspects of your apprenticeship?
"I balanced it quite well as I went to college for one day a week and work for 4 days so I learnt the practical side from work and theory from college."
What was the most rewarding part of your apprenticeship experience?
"The most rewarding part of it was meeting a great team at Individual also learning different skills from different people from here."
Were there any challenges you faced during your training and how did you overcome them?
"I faced different challenges along the way from jobs going wrong which is part of the journey but I ask questions and learn different skills to avoid issues."
Can you describe a project or a moment during your apprenticeship that you're particularly proud of?
"I am proud to have got the e-mail saying I passed my apprenticeship and appreciate all the people at Individual Specialist Cars for helping me get there."
How has qualifying as a vehicle paint technician changed your perspective on the industry?
"Being qualified has now given me more confidence within the organisation the job and to be able to progress further in the organisation."
What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship in vehicle paintwork?
"I would advise that people learn and listen to everything that people are trying to show them as it is a hard skill to learn."
What skills do you think are most important for a vehicle paint technician to have?
"I would say being able to communicate well have understanding within what you're doing also have patience."
Would you recommend this career path to others and why?
"I would recommend this career path as it is a good trade to learn and the job gives you satisfaction when you have completed a good job."
The Value of Apprenticeships in the Automotive Industry
National Apprenticeship Week showcases how apprenticeships benefit both individuals and industries, they provide:
✅ Hands-on experience with the latest vehicle technologies
✅ A direct pathway to industry-recognised qualifications
✅ Career progression opportunities
Apprenticeship and Training providers like Sandwell College and the IMI:Institute of the Motor Industry offer structured apprenticeship programs, while employers like us can provide real-world training.
Get your Ferrari Challenge Car race ready, get in touch with us Individual Specialist Cars - Official Ferrari Bodyshop.
Daniel has successfully completed his apprenticeship and is now a fully qualified Vehicle Panel Technician at Individual Specialist Cars. His journey demonstrates the value of hands-on training, perseverance, and the importance of structural vehicle repairs in the accident repair industry.
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 to do After a Road Traffic Accident – A Driver’s Guide
From Apprentice to Fully Qualified Technicians: Reece, Hayden and Daniel's Success (Part 1)
As an Approved Bodyshop for Lotus Cars, we pride ourselves on combining our people skills with the latest technological advancements. One such advancement is the Car Bench Evolution Measuring System from Car Bench International, a cornerstone in our toolkit that ensures the highest precision in accident repairs.
Lamborghini Iron Lynx will race its SC63 prototype on home soil for the very first time this weekend as the 2024 FIA World Endurance Championship returns for the second round of the season at Imola.
"Sant'Agata Bolognese, March 28, 2024 – After more than two decades since the last update, Automobili Lamborghini has renewed its historic logo. The restyling is driven by a new strategy that involves adapting the brand’s visual expression to better reflect the “brave”, “unexpected” and “authentic” values of its mission, namely “Driving Humans Beyond”, a concept that translates into the intention to always go beyond the limits, standards and conventions."
Why You Should Choose a Manufacturer Approved Bodyshop for Your Vehicle Body Damage Repairs.
When your vehicle suffers from road traffic accidents or general body damage, selecting the right repair centre is crucial to ensure the longevity and safety of your car.