Bangkok--11 Nov--BMW Thailand
BMW Group Thailand has extended the ‘BMW Service Apprentice Program’ into a second year, awarding an additional 20 scholarships as well as providing students specialized skills and knowledge in technology and innovation in the automotive business. Recipients of the scholarships are from the Kanchanaphisek Technical College, Mahanakorn. BMW Group Thailand initiated the BMW Service Apprentice Program in 2012, as a special project designed to train new technicians and provide them with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in BMW Group Thailand dealer network. A total of 34 apprentices receive elementary and foundation training at the college, BMW theory and practical training at the BMW Training Center and on the job training and support from BMW certified technicians at authorized BMW dealerships. Those who complete the program gain a Diploma in Mechanical Power Technology and will be able to start work as a BMW mechanic level 1.
Speaking about the apprenticeship scheme, Mr. Matthias Pfalz, President, BMW Group Thailand said “Becoming an apprentice can be an important first step in learning new skills and building a rewarding career in one of Thailand’s fastest growing industries. This comprehensive on the job training is a fundamental part of the BMW Service Apprentice Program, which will provide valuable experience to develop students as the future backbone of BMW Group Thailand and our dealer network, as well as setting a new technological standard for the industry.”
Mr. Wirat Meenchainunt. Bangkok Minburi District Councilor and Chairman of the Education Commission Kanchanapisek Technical College Mahanakorn, said, “Kanchanapisek Technical College Mahanakorn is committed to providing the best education to our students in order to become experts and skilled automotive technicians. Apart from theoretical learning framework, we see that practical training combined with on-the-job training by expert technicians from world-class automotive companies are an essential part for students to achieve the most impactful learning benefits. Thus, we have been committed to the BMW Service Apprentice Program for two years so far and are very grateful to BMW Group Thailand for their ongoing support and are looking forward to continuing this endeavor together.”
“BMW Group Thailand initiated the BMW Service Apprentice Program as part of the company’s sustainability vision, seeking to maximize sustainability at every stage in the value creation chain and the processes involved in it. Behaving as a good corporate citizen and as a responsible employer remains a core company value, and the BMW Group Thailand is committed to support the on-going development of the country into a leading global automotive production hub by helping to lay the foundations for a highly skilled and trained workforce that will help ensure that Thailand’s automotive industry reaches its full potential,” added Mr. Matthias Pfalz.
Looking forward to 2014, BMW Group Thailand will continue to increase awareness about the BMW Service Apprentice Program and further expand the opportunities for even more schools and students’ applications as well.