Fife College Automotive Engineering Apprentice, Rebecca Porter, is proving she is an ambassador for women in the automotive industry after winning second place in a national competition.
The 18-year-old, from Dunfermline, showed she has got what it takes to compete at a national level after impressing judges who awarded her second place in the Scottish Institute of Road Transport Engineers (IRTE) Skills Competition held recently at Ayrshire College. Rebecca was delighted to represent Fife College at the event and was the only female in the competition.
Rebecca began her studies with Fife College on a full-time automotive programme covering a range of vehicle maintenance and repair skills, where students are also encouraged to take on work placements as part of their course which provided Rebecca with the initial opportunity at Flear and Thomson KIA. After successfully completing the work placement Rebecca was offered full-time employment as an apprentice technician.
The third year Modern Apprentice, who previously attended Queen Anne High School in Dunfermline, is loving every minute of her training.
Said Rebecca: “I’m so glad I chose to become a motor vehicle apprentice, it’s all I’ve ever wanted to do as I love working on cars and solving technical problems. Taking part in the competition was a great experience - this is the first time I have competed in this type of competition and found it challenging but also fun”.
“I really enjoy working with the team at Flear and Thomson and look forward to a great career ahead.”
A special presentation was held at Flear and Thomson to recognise Rebecca’s achievements and was attended by Derek Young, Fife College Work Place Assessor; Stephen Ayton, Curriculum Manager for Mechanical and Automotive Engineering, Fife College; and Derek Roney, Service Manager at Flear and Thomson.
Jim Copeland, Chairman of IRTE presented Rebecca with her prize of tools to the value of £250 donated by Dingbro.
Said Jim: “I am delighted to award Rebecca with her second place certificate and prizes. She performed exceptionally well in the competition, maintained a calm, professional attitude and is an excellent ambassador for women in the automotive engineering industry.”
Said Stephen: “We are very proud of Rebecca who works extremely hard when in College and in the workplace. She is a fantastic role model to other inspiring apprentices and we wish her the very best for the future.
