A training program for service technicians working at Isuzu Trucks dealerships nationwide encompasses a range of opportunities, including hands-on experience with a racing team in the Repco Supercars Championship.
In 2024, Isuzu’s Supercars experience for technicians is assisted by PremiAir Nulon Racing.
This year, 16 Isuzu technicians will join the PremiAir Nulon Racing team at events during the 2024 Repco Supercars Championship calendar and at the team’s headquarters in the Gold Coast, Queensland.
IAL’s Head of Aftersales, Brett Stewart, explained the ethos behind the annual program.
“With almost 100,000 Isuzu trucks on the roads over the last ten years, the need to attract and retain talented technicians in our industry has never been greater,” says Stewart.
“The goal of these training programs is to foster some of the best talent for our dealer network and see all the benefits of this type of hands-on learning flow through to support our customers,” he says.
Those chosen to participate in the experience were elected via a nomination process. They were chosen based on their high level of dedication and support to their Isuzu dealership and customers.
The 16 technicians will assist the PremiAir Nulon pit crew with general operations while being fully immersed in running repairs and service on race cars against the clock.
For hosts PremiAir Nulon Racing, having an extra set of hands and some added enthusiasm is a welcome addition, according to Chief Mechanic Andrew Bell.
“It’s a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience, ask plenty of questions, and get full exposure to what’s involved in the operation of a Supercars team,” says Bell.
“Some of the technicians we have hosted have converted the experience to a full-time position within the industry, but this is more about generating enthusiasm to continue their work in what is a critical aspect of the heavy vehicle sector,” he says.
PremiAir Racing has hosted two technicians at race events in Darwin, Townsville and Sydney—plus two technicians at the team workshop following those rounds.
Technician Zac Spalding from Blacklocks Isuzu in Wodonga said he was thrilled to have the chance to learn the ropes.
“Just the speed and everyone knowing what to do throughout the weekend was really exciting to be a part of,” says Spalding.
“The team works quickly but precisely, and everyone communicates constantly to ensure that things run smoothly.”
Likewise, apprentice technician Rochelle Magnussen from Brisbane Isuzu Stapylton was geared up for the experience, noting that preparation was a key lesson for keeping the race team ticking.
“The biggest thing I took away from the opportunity was how planning makes everything far more straightforward,” Magnussen says.
“I can apply things I got to experience, maybe not at the same pace as at the racetrack, but certainly to improve how I approach my workday back at the dealership.”
As a bonus, the best nomination from each of the two program categories (technician and apprentice) received a hot lap inside one of PremiAir Nulon’s GM Camaros at a ride day in Sydney.
The two places were awarded to Isuzu Trucks technicians Keaton Ratcliff of Major Motors (Forrestfield) and apprentice Joel Allen from Brisbane Isuzu (Burpengary).
