HGV repair, management and fleet maintenance specialist Pullman Fleet has launched GearUp, an employment-based training programme aimed at tackling the HGV technician shortage.
The programme combines paid, full-time employment with structured on-the-job training, aimed at fast tracking the next generation of HGV talent.
The scheme offers individuals with at least three years of mechanical experience a direct route into the industry with full-time employment, on-the-job training, and IRTEC inspection technician qualification, all backed by Pullman’s decades of experience.
Dave Jones, Pullman Fleet Solutions managing director, said: “Pullman is proud to be leading the way in addressing one of the industry’s biggest challenges – the shortage of skilled HGV technicians.
“Technicians are the backbone of this industry. If we want the UK’s fleets to keep moving, we need to invest in the peoplewho keep them roadworthy.
“With GearUp, Pullman is setting the benchmark for how our industry addresses this challenge.”
Pullman said GearUp is structured around full-time employment rather than classroom theory.
Trainees work alongside experienced HGV technicians at Pullman sites nationwide, gaining practical skills and progressing toward their IRTEC accreditation - a benchmark standard for technicians.
The programme is paid from day one. GearUp graduates continue into permanent HGV roles at Pullman, where average salaries for fully skilled technicians range between £40,000 and £55,000 per year, depending on location and shift pattern.
Sean Derrig, Pullman Fleet Solutions HR manager, said: “We’re opening the door to meaningful, long-term careers.
“GearUp appeals to people with real mechanicalability who’ve hit a ceiling in their current role. They want to step up, build new skills,and get properly qualified. We’re here to make that possible.”
John Mackie, who successfully completed the GearUp training, commented, “When I first joined, I spent about a month shadowing one of the technicians, just getting a feel for everything.
“Then I had formal training, which really helped boost my confidence. At this point, I’m working through jobs on my own.”
GearUp is designed for candidates from diverse mechanical backgrounds, including light commercial vehicle mechanics, dealership technicians, or those working in plant, rail, or military engineering.
The company said what is paramount is the candidates hands-on experience, a good work ethic, and the ambition to grow.
Those who are interested in learning more and applying for GearUp can do so through Pullman’s website.
