Kyle Knox first started at College on a Greenpower Electric Karting Race Programme in 2018 whilst studying in S4 at Inverclyde Academy. After thoroughly enjoying the programme, Kyle ignited a passion for the motor industry and progressed onto a full-time course in Vehicle Accident Repair IMI Level 1, then IMI Level 2 Diploma in Vehicle Accident Repair Paint Principles (VRQ) and recently completed Diploma in Vehicle Body Repair at SCQF Level 5.
Lecturer Colin McLaughlin commented:
“Little did we know that from the humble beginnings of building a wee kart at our Greenock Campus, Kyle would become part of a team of four who won the British Championship and qualify to race in the world final at Silverstone! The team came 24th in the world, which included teams from NASA and Google.”
Kyle was pivotal in fundraising to finance the venture and helped run the team as a business. Because of this strategy, Kyle won first place in the communication and social media strategy at the world finals!
"Kyles's journey with the college was not finished at that. He returned to us with the school's vocational program and completed his body and paint qualification. This led Kyle to enter the level two body and paint at Greenock, where he excelled as he did in his early years with us."
Kyle finding employment with Raltec ARC should be an inspiration to every young person who is thinking of a career in motor vehicle in the Inverclyde area.
Kyle commented:
During my time at college, I was supported by all Lecturers from each department and in particular Austin as he gave me the confidence in my own ability to achieve success in finding employment with Raltec ARC.
On completion of my college course, I received a tool chest from John Mather trust, the college also supplied me with tools to get me started.
I am very grateful for all help and support during my years at West College Scotland.”
Kyle is one of seventy-two students to receive donations from the John Mather Trust, who very kindly gifted £10,000 of funding to West College Scotland for another year running.
The money has allowed the College to provide additional resources to students college-wide, across four departments, helping to support them in their final stages of study and the transition into employment to help build a career in their chosen vocational area.
Lecturer Colin McLaughlin continued:
I am incredibly proud of Kyle! He was an integral part of running the Greenpower program as a business and has shown he is a competent young man throughout the years. I’m sure he will flourish in the next chapter of his life. I wish him all the best!”
Feeling inspired? Have a look at our IMI Diploma in Vehicle Body Repair Level 2.
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