Going the extra mile
MOTOR enthusiast Adam Trotto from Leongatha Toyota and Honda is going the extra mile to help with all your motoring needs and queries as he approaches his fifth year at the local workshop.
Starting out as a motor mechanic apprentice, Mr Trotto recently made the leap into a service advisor role.
When asked why he wanted to pursue a job as a motor mechanic, Mr Trotto said “I’ve always liked cars – in school we had classes in welding, woodwork and automotive. I really enjoyed automotive so I went that way.”
The car and bike lover – who owns his own Toyota four wheel drive and dirt bike – completed his apprenticeship is a commendable two and a half years as opposed to the standard three to four years by working during the day at Leongatha Honda and Toyota, and completing night study at Leongatha’S Federation Training.
“I handed in my resume to Leongatha Toyota and Honda and was put on as an apprentice. I think it’s good to approach an employer which demonstrates that you are proactive,” Mr Trotto said.
Apprentices start out as a general mechanic but opportunities to take on other roles within the department exist, including the role of foreman, service manager, technical advisor and service advisor.
Mr Trotto said the work was physical but that suited him, especially in winter as the mechanics were inside and out of the cold.
“You do hard work, so it’s important to have an interest in cars and some understanding as cars these days have lots of parts,” he said.
“But it is rewarding, especially when you diagnose a problem and are able to fix it. It’s great helping people who are experiencing car problems.”’
Mr Trotto recommended to anyone considering a career as a motor mechanic to study automotive as a subject in Year 11 and 12, as it he felt it was a massive advantage to him to have some prior knowledge before jumping into an apprenticeship.
“Around this area I would recommend an apprenticeship. You can get a job anywhere, especially as a mechanic,” he said.
As of late last year, Mr Trotto began working as a service advisor, making all the repair orders for the day, organising bookings and managing the workshop, as well as being the face of the company and directly dealing with customers.
“The perks of the role I’m in now include that I get to talk to a lot of people, which I enjoy,” Mr Trotto said.
The small dealership means that all staff work closely together, so having good rapport between team and customers is essential for the growth of the business.
Mr Trotto said he hopes to go into management down the track and continue to learn and develop in his trade.
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