Source: Textar
Hartlepool, England – Premium brake brand Textar, which is manufactured by one of the global leaders in brake- friction technology, TMD Friction, is sponsoring the Institute of Motor Industry’ s (IMI) Student Membership program to help inspire the next generation of automotive workers.
Textar has recognized the importance of supporting young people within the industry and is striving to assist the IMI in providing them with the right tools to embark on their career.
The IMI’s student membership package provides information and guidance, as well as a hub for technical updates, online learning, video content, jobs, events, competitions and more.
As a whole, the automotive industry is suffering from a skills shortage as more technicians are retiring than the number of workers entering the industry. To counteract this, Textar is committed to increasing the level of engagement and interest from the younger generation to protect the future of the automotive market.
Scott Irwin, head of technical training at TMD Friction, said: “As part of TMD Friction, Textar benefits from the company’s €30m annual investment in extensive research, development and testing. It’s great to be able to share this research and findings with the next generation. It’s essential that people entering into the sector at this stage feel that they have an encouraging network to gain real passion for the work. At a time when skill shortages and mental health and well-being play such a huge part within the sector, we at Textar think it’s more important than ever to guarantee the right support is there for the next generation.”
Textar worked in partnership with the IMI for three years to show its dedication to providing technical advice and news to the industry.
Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI added: “We’re delighted that Textar has recognized the importance of supporting the next generation of workers with sponsorship of our Student Membership package. Hardly a day goes by when the skills gap in the sector isn’t discussed and there is clear recognition that we need to do all we can to enthuse young people about the opportunities available. It’s also vital that we provide young people with all the support they need as they embark on their career.
“Being a member of the IMI is a clear demonstration to consumers and the industry as a whole of an individual’s commitment to the best training and working practices. With Textar’s support we can therefore ensure even the newest workers in our sector – the students starting on their career path – can be part of that story.”
About TMD Friction
TMD Friction is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of brake friction materials for the automotive and brake industry. The company’s product portfolio comprises disc brake pads and drum brake linings for passenger cars and commercial vehicles together with friction materials for racing and industrial applications.
With its brands Textar, Mintex, DON, Pagid and Cobreq, TMD Friction has a market-leading position in the global replacement parts market. Under the brand names Cosid and Dynotherm, TMD Friction develops and produces friction materials for industrial applications. TMD Friction has four operations in Germany as well as in Europe, USA, Brazil, Mexico, China, Japan and South Africa. The TMD Friction Group employs approximately 5,000 people worldwide. For further information please visit www.tmdfriction.com.
About IMI
The IMI is the professional body for individuals working in the motor industry, and the authoritative voice of the sector.
IMI is transforming the automotive industry by setting, upholding and promoting professional standards – driving skills acquisition, establishing clearer career paths, and boosting public confidence. IMI’s online Professional Register is here to make sure consumers are in skilled, competent and trustworthy hands.
