In an effort to address the growing problem of attracting and developing apprentices in the body repair industry the MSLETB Vehicle Body Repair Training Centre in Sligo has announced that it is to hold an open day on July 10th.

The Vehicle Body Repair Training Centre is part of the Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board and instructor Eric Aldridge is very keen to raise awareness about body repair apprenticeship schemes both with potential trainees and bodyshop employers. He comments, "We are working on a two pronged approach to this issue. We are visiting schools and highlighting the great opportunities that exists to train for what is now a very high technology industry and we are also trying to get more bodyshop operators on board to work with us on developing apprentices.” He adds, "The industry is already facing a skills shortage, so it is vital to attract new blood and apprenticeships are the best way to do this.”

The idea of the open day is to show bodyshop operators the training facilities available at the Sligo Centre and to highlight the considerable benefits that repairers can gain from taking on apprentices. There will also be tool and equipment displays from industry suppliers at the event which will take place at the MSLETB Training Centre, Ballytivnan, Sligo.

For more information call Eric on 071 9159571.