Lifelong friends Talia Wilson and Olivia Smolicz are putting a Llanelli autocentre on the map as one of the most female-friendly in the area, after becoming fully fledged tyre fitters – with another apprentice following in their footsteps.
The former Bryngwyn Comprehensive School pupils, both 18, are forging careers at ETB Autocentres in Trostre Industrial Estate, in an industry historically synonymous with men. They are now encouraging other girls their age to give the profession a go.
Olivia said:
“I never gave the automotive world a thought when I was younger and I only really applied for the role after hearing Talia say so many positive things about her job.
“It made me curious and I could see how happy her position was making her feel. I thought that I’d like to give it a go too. I’m so glad that I did, because I’m learning every day and I feel like I’m making a difference for people by ensuring their cars are safe.”
Talia has always shared a love for cars, and said that she couldn’t think of a better place to work.
“It’s more than just a job – it’s a career I’m really passionate about and I’d encourage other girls to give it a go. They won’t be disappointed. I feel like my voice is heard here and my suggestions and opinions really matter.”
On the back of their arrival, a new female apprentice has also joined the ETB ranks and centre manager Leigh Anthony said he’d welcome more female applicants in future.
“Talia and Olivia are a credit to the depot,” he said. “They’ve quickly become indispensable members of the team, and the work they do is really impressive. The lads all think the world of them both and their skills complement theirs nicely. Their commitment to customer care and safety is second to none, so our customers are equally impressed as well.”
