Paige Cole, a Passionate Apprentice with a Promising Future

For Paige Cole, embarking on an automotive career was nothing short of a step into the unknown, but now after three years she has not looked back.

A fourth year Light Vehicle Mechanic Apprentice at the MTA, she is currently employed at BMW Adelaide.

Paige had no prior auto experience when she enrolled for her apprenticeship but she remembers always being fascinated by cars.

“I bought my first car at the age of 16. It was red and shiny and I didn’t want anyone else to touch it.”

Paige was hired by the MTA following her interview and was accepted into an induction course to learn the fundamentals. She received a call from her Automotive Business Specialist at the time asking if she would like to attend an interview. Paige agreed and Adelaide BMW later hired her for the next six months.

Franco Albuino, her Automotive Business Specialist at the time said, “Paige was always enthusiastic and committed to her training. There was no doubt in my mind that an employer would embrace her qualities and abilities.”

For Paige, her unfamiliarity with cars was matched by a determination to give it her best shot, regardless of what the outcome may have been. She now enjoys building her confidence day-by-day.

“No one in my family was handy with cars and were afraid to touch them,” she recalled.

“I saw it as an opportunity to challenge myself and was very eager to learn. This apprenticeship gave me a new direction in life.” And her advice for other women interested in the automotive industry is clear.

“It doesn’t matter what gender you are,” she said. “Everyone at my job is very supportive. Their strengths also complement mine.”

“I can reach stuff that most guys can’t since I have little hands and the boys can help me if I need assistance lifting things.”

“If you can follow directions, you can complete an apprenticeship.

I saw it as an opportunity to challenge myself and was very eager to learn. This apprenticeship gave me a new direction in life.

“It’s easier than you might think. Every day is unique and it can occasionally be stressful however it can also be very exciting.”

Paige’s Service Manager Adam Martin said, “In 23 years of working in dealerships, Paige is one of the best apprentices I’ve ever had the privilege of working with. She’s always eager and willing to learn, has good work ethic and is the first to arrive and last to leave. She puts most of the guys to shame.”

Paige’s goals are to complete her apprenticeship at the MTA before pursuing additional training at BMW to receive her certification by the manufacturer. She would then have the opportunity to travel to Germany for further training.

“When there’s a problem, you can spend a long time trying to figure it out but when you finally solve the issue you have that knowledge forever,” she said.

Outside of her apprenticeship, Paige enjoys reading featuring builds in magazines and watching YouTube channels such as Mighty Car Mods and JDM cars.