Nationwide triumphs at Bodyshop Live!
Nationwide is still celebrating after collecting two prestigious awards at the bodyshop Live! 2019 event last week.
Will Callaghan was named Paint Technician of the Year and James Bullass won Apprentice Panel Technician of the Year.
The event was a great night for Nationwide, not only for the winners, but to also have finalists in four other categories on the night: Darren Pennington, general manager at Trafford Park;, Chris McGill, MET technician; James Oakley, paint technician; and Nationwide’s Technical Training and Professional Development Academy.
Both Will and James have been supported by Nationwide in their development and training throughout their careers to date something they both acknowledged after being named as winners.
Will, mobile repair technician said, ‘I am really pleased to win the award. After I was nominated, I had to do an online test and a practical which consisted of four different modules to stretch my abilities, so it feels extremely rewarding to know that my skillset impressed the panel and the judges.
‘Nationwide has been so supportive throughout my career and I would encourage anyone to expand their skills further when given the chance in their career.’
Speaking about Will’s success Kevin Whittaker, head of mobile repair said, ‘As a brand ambassador for Nationwide Mobile Repair, Will has demonstrated how a multi-skilled mobile technician has the ability to be the best in the industry.’
Regarding his achievement, James Bullass, apprentice panel technician at Nationwide Scunthorpe said, ‘It means the world to me to be receiving awards like this after just three years of my apprenticeship. I am really overwhelmed, it’s an amazing feeling.
‘I couldn’t have won this award without the help of my manager and colleagues as they are always pushing me to be the best that I can be, and they believe in me.’
Rick Prior, general manager at Nationwide Scunthorpe said, ‘It’s such an incredible moment for James and the whole team at Scunthorpe are so proud of him. The determination and passion he shows in his daily duties has certainly led James to victory at the Bodyshop awards.
‘James has a real bright future ahead of him with Nationwide and is now a role model for new apprentices coming into the industry.’
The success at the awards follows an evening of celebration where two Nationwide team members, Shaun Morton, Panel Beater at Nationwide Newcastle and Darren Neagle, communication and engagement business partner were recognised at the 30 under 30: rising stars evening.
30 Under 30 was set up to celebrate and recognise 30 individuals under the age of 30 years old who have been identified as rising stars in the automotive industry and something both Shaun and Darren were very proud to be included in.
Shaun said, ‘It’s a great feeling to know that all the hard work I’ve put in has paid off and that people think I am doing a good job.’
Darren added, ‘It is great to be recognised but to know that people believe I am making a difference in the industry is really pleasing and rewarding.’
