Michelle Cross joined the Battery World West Ipswich team in 2019 as a Retail Assistant and thanks to her ‘can do attitude’, has since been promoted to a full time Battery Technician, a position she loves and appreciates every day.
At Battery World Australia, upskilling employees is a priority area and through a partnership with TAFE, the leading battery retailer can offer staff across Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria the chance to undertake a Certificate II in Auto Electrical Technology. Automotive electrical skills are in high demand with employers finding it hard to fill vacancies for qualified automotive electricians, which is why Battery World has committed to providing the opportunity for its employees to earn a highly desired qualification.
Battery World Ipswich Franchise Partners, Ruthie and Howdie Farrar recognised this opportunity immediately and asked if Michelle was interested in furthering her skills – an opportunity Michelle jumped at.
Michelle was the only female in the class; however, gender proved no barrier. The entire class at the same objective – to further their skills.
The makeup of the course was completely transferrable to the Battery World workplace – covering basic electrics and the understanding of electrical formulas involving volts, amps, and ohms. This then led to understanding more complex electrical components, including the functions of relays, fuses, diodes, resistors, voltmeters and amp meters, followed by repairs to single electrical circuit including soldering and basic electrical systems and components. Other subjects covered were, removing and replacing wheels and tyres as well as how to test and service batteries, starter motors and alternators.
For Michelle, the practical and theoretical approach was a great learning experience. With an involved and supportive teacher, plus access to QLD TAFE’s online resources, Michelle made the most of support and it paid off with her nailing her assessment and walking away with a new qualification.
Her proudest achievement? Completing wiring boards for a range of automotive lights including headlights and taillights, starter solenoid and ignition circuit and having her wiring boards start the motor.
“I would highly recommend this course to anyone wanting to further their skills in the workplace. I have come away with a better understanding of Auto Electrics, greater confidence and it really is satisfying and rewarding when you enjoy what you do and have that extra knowledge and know how.Come on girls!” – Michelle Cross
Special thanks to Battery World National Training Manager, Robyn Jordan for organising such a valuable learning experience; Batter World Ipswich Franchise Partners Ruthie and Howdie for giving Michelle the opportunity to further her skills in a job she loves, and QLD TAFE teacher, Graham for his dedication to the students and flexibility in ensuring everyone made the most of this opportunity.