HiQ Tyres & Autocare recently hosted its first-ever ‘HiQ Apprentice Day’, bringing together young engineering talent from across the UK to inspire and equip them with the skills, knowledge, and connections necessary to thrive in their careers working in the automotive industry.

The event hosted 18 apprentices, aged 16 to 25, at HiQ’s Birmingham headquarters. Representing stores from Southampton, Plymouth, Hull, Ipswich, Maidenhead, Bristol, Lancaster, and Birkenhead, the apprentices had a valuable opportunity to network with like-minded technicians and gain insights from seasoned professionals in the automotive industry.

The apprentice day featured a variety of interactive sessions covering key areas such as communications, marketing and product knowledge. HiQ delegates and guest speakers, many of whom began their own careers as apprentices – shared inspiring stories, highlighting the exciting growth and development opportunities within the network.

As part of its ‘HiQ Academy’ programme, a specialised training and supplier initiative for technicians, the event aimed to foster expertise and ensure high service standards across its nationwide network, reaffirming HiQ’s commitment to developing the next generation of engineering talent.

Backed by Goodyear, HiQ operates a network of 190 tyre & autocare centres across the UK and is renowned for delivering professional, seamless customer service.

Apprentices play a vital role in maintaining this reputation, working alongside experienced professionals to help HiQ remain a leader in the automotive care sector. They bring fresh perspectives, enthusiasm, and a commitment to learning that improves the quality of service offered across the network for customers.

Craig Sprigmore, Goodyear Retail Director UK & Ireland, shared his thoughts on the event: “We were delighted to welcome the young apprentices to our HiQ headquarters in Birmingham for the first-ever HiQ Apprentice Day. The event was overwhelmingly successful, with each young technician gaining new knowledge and showcasing their potential to shape the future.

Their day-to-day involvement in diagnostics, repairs, and customer service not only supports the daily operations of HiQ centres but also positions the company to continually evolve and adapt to the latest technological advancements in the automotive industry.”

He added: “It’s therefore crucial that we provide these young technicians with an in-depth understanding of how a national network of autocentres like HiQ operates behind the scenes. This experience offers them valuable insights beyond the typical car garages they might be familiar with, while giving them the chance to engage with the wider HiQ team. 

It was fantastic to see such enthusiasm from the apprentices, and we look forward to continuing our support as they progress in their learning and individual careers.”