Our Motor Vehicle students were given an insight into the rapidly changing world of automotive technology during a special guest talk from DENSO, a global leader in advanced vehicle components and systems. The session, held at the college’s Bowling Back Lane campus, offered learners an opportunity to hear directly from an industry expert about the future of the sector, and the skills they’ll need to succeed in it.
First year motor vehicle student Leon described the experience as eye‑opening, explaining that the talk shifted the way he thinks about vehicle mechanics.
“In general, I think it was very interesting,” he said. “It taught me something that I never actually thought was possible… it made me think more about what’s going on inside the engine than outside of it. I think that will really help me progress in my career.”
Leon has ambitions of gaining experience in the trade before eventually opening his own garage. With a smile, he added:
“The dream is to work at a garage… and then hopefully start my own business and try and get my garage above theirs! I hate to say that to the guys, but you know.”
He also praised the Motor Vehicle teaching team, calling them “great” and “willing to help at any point in time.”
The session was led by Kevin Peacocke, a DENSO representative and proud Bradford College alumni from the Class of ’96. Kevin highlighted the dramatic evolution taking place across the automotive aftermarket, driven by the rise of hybrid, electric, and alternative‑fuel vehicles.
“The automotive industry, particularly the aftermarket, is undergoing one of the most significant periods of transformation in its history,” he explained. “Hybrid, fully electric, and alternative‑powered vehicles are becoming more common, and they require specialist repair and diagnostic expertise.”
DENSO, which holds more than 38,000 patents worldwide, supplies components to the vast majority of vehicles on the road today. Kevin emphasised that innovation is central to the company’s identity, and that nurturing new talent is essential for the future of the industry.
Bradford College’s Cutting‑Edge Facilities
During the visit, Kevin praised both the enthusiasm of the students and the advanced facilities available at Bradford College.
“The capability and facilities here are genuinely impressive,” he said. “With multiple EV training rigs and even a Toyota hydrogen vehicle, students are getting hands‑on experience with technologies that will shape the future of mobility.”
He stressed that the days of the ‘simple mechanic’ are long gone, with modern workshops now relying heavily on diagnostics, software, and complex system knowledge.
“Students today will be the ones guiding businesses through this technological revolution,” Kevin added. “Bradford College has created a training environment that equips learners with exactly the skills the industry needs.”
Although he admitted he might be “a little biased” as a former student, Kevin reaffirmed his belief that the College is preparing young people not just to enter the automotive sector, but to become future leaders within it.
Thinking about a career in the Motor industry? Check out the courses we have on offer Here.
