TMD Friction shines light aftermarket talent in National Apprenticeship Week

TMD Friction UK has been highlighting the importance of embracing future talent and encouraging the next generation of aftermarket professionals into the industry as part of National Apprenticeship week (6–12 February).

To mark the occasion, the braking specialist is celebrating its own homegrown talent throughout its UK sites. For its part, TMD Friction UK offers a comprehensive apprenticeship programme.

Kim Tompson, production administrator, said: “I’ve worked at TMD since 2009 and was given the opportunity to complete a Level 4 apprenticeship in Business Administration.

“During my time with the company I feel I have always been given a fair chance to further my career and have been supported by members within my team, as well as outside of my team, in order to be successful.

“Completing my qualification gave me the opportunity to see a range of clear objectives and how they are actioned. I feel privileged to be an employee at TMD and also a part of the team.”

Jack Fallow, apprentice maintenance technician, added: “I have currently been a multi-skilled maintenance technician apprentice within TMD Friction UK for over three years. Throughout this time, I have taken part in a vast variety of engineering related tasks, ranging from factory improvement projects to urgent machine breakdown response.

“TMD pushes apprentices to achieve high academic grades alongside gathering a wide range of on-the-job training to help produce a fully competent and good quality maintenance technician.

“TMD allows maintenance apprentices to experience working in other engineering departments throughout the company to both expand their knowledge and guide them down a career path they most enjoy.”

Another one of its valued apprentices is Stephen Smailes, apprentice maintenance technician, who commented: “TMD Friction UK Hartlepool is a great place to work as an apprentice. The company has a wide range of machinery, from 100ton presses to Comec grinders. These machines help gain a great amount of knowledge in the maintenance trade.

“I chose TMD Friction UK  after completing a week’s work experience – the number of skills you can learn, as well as for the number of opportunities provided was a key factor in my decision. TMD life is a really enjoyable experience – I have met lots of new people who try and push me to by the best maintenance technician I can be.”

TMD Friction’s technical training team was recently awarded the renowned Outstanding Achievement accolade at the Annual Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation’s (IAAF’s) Award ceremony.

The team was recognised for its uncompromising approach to continuing professional development (CPD) including informing customers and the wider aftermarket of correct fitting procedures and modern-day braking systems.