September 4 2026
Focused on an automotive career and keen to gain real-world experience, Jack Lowe began MITO’s StartUp® programme for secondary school students while still at school at Darfield High School.
Through the programme, he was able to obtain work experience at Frews Transport Ltd, a rural transport and freight company in Canterbury.
Jack has always had a passion for getting hands-on and understanding how things operate. From the age of 10, he became involved with motocross—and not just for the racing. He was rebuilding his own engines and repairing his bikes, building practical skills and confidence from a young age. While the trucks at Frews Transport Ltd were new territory, Jack wasn’t starting from scratch.
“Working on trucks was new to me, but my dad has two, so I had an idea of how things worked and what to expect.”
MITO Training Advisor Lisa Florance supported Jack’s ambitions and explained that the StartUp® programme could provide a solid basis from which to apply for an apprenticeship.
The programme helped Jack build foundational knowledge in health and safety, while blending online and practical learning to prepare him for the realities of an industry workshop.
“It strengthened my chances of full-time employment at Frews Transport Ltd and proved I was capable of completing training within a set timeframe.”
That early commitment and capability didn’t go unnoticed.
Following completion of StartUp®, Jack was successful in obtaining an apprenticeship in Heavy Automotive Engineering (Level 3 and 4) with Frews Transport Ltd—the beginning of a real industry career.
Now working as an apprentice, Jack is gaining hands-on experience every day—and no two days are the same.
“It varies from greasing and checking over the truck and trailer, to finding broken parts or loose bolts.”
For Jack, one of the most rewarding parts of the apprenticeship is seeing his own growth.
“What I enjoy most is building up my toolbox—the tools I need, the skills I’ve learned—and being able to use them on my own projects in my own time.”
Better yet, he’s earning while he learns.
“Being hired into heavy automotive is great. I’m getting paid while doing something I enjoy, and having fun while learning something new.”
At Frews Transport Ltd, Jack is supported by experienced supervisor Neil Plaisted, who has spent around 50 years in the industry and is passionate about developing the next generation.
“The best part about having Jack here is having him under our wing so we can see what he’s like—his capability, his personality. It’s a great way to understand whether someone is the right fit.”
For Neil, apprenticeships are about more than filling roles—they are an investment in the future of the industry.
“If businesses don’t bring on apprentices, there won’t be people coming through in the future. We must all play a part.”
He sees firsthand how apprentices grow over time.
“Each week, you see them improving more and more. That’s what it’s all about.”
Neil also highlights the value of MITO’s StartUp® programme in strengthening that pathway and the career boost it can give aspiring technicians when looking for a job.
“Completing StartUp® gives people the essential skills to start their career—it’s definitely an advantage.”
With evolving technology and strong demand across sectors like transport and agriculture, building a skilled workforce is essential. For Jack, the goal is clear.
“Being qualified is my dream—and I’m working towards achieving it.”
