A VEHICLE maintenance equipment supplier is nurturing the next generation of mechanics and engineers by jump-starting an industry training scheme.

Morpeth-based Gott Technical Services has launched the project with more than 300 students from Gateshead College’s motor vehicle mechanic, body repair and paint, welding and engineering courses, which will see them design a piece of garage equipment of the future.

With the chance of winning a month’s industry work experience within a real garage environment provided by Benfield Motor Group and job shadowing a Gott engineer, students will work in pairs to design the new piece of equipment.

Students will have one month to work on their design, which could be anything from new clothing for mechanics to wear, a piece of equipment for electric and hybrid vehicles, something to improve productivity, or something to deal with health and safety issues such as manual handling.

Gott Technical Services director Ian Gott said: “We are keen to play our part in promoting the development of skills within the automotive industry so we are delighted to launch this opportunity with Gateshead College and to help to stimulate the minds of young learners looking forward to a career in our sector.

“Who knows, if the design showed massive potential then we could even look at getting the piece made into production for real.”

As well as the work experience placement, the winning pair will both receive a £50 Halfords gift voucher.