Shifting gears on the shop floor: When study meets experience

From the workshop floor to leading the team

Matthew first joined Avon City Ford as a technician, spending ten years diagnosing faults, repairing vehicles, and expanding his expertise. He later moved into warranty administration, quickly growing from clerk to the team’s main Warranty Administrator. Five years ago, he stepped into the role of Workshop Foreman and discovered that leadership required a different set of skills.

“Every day brings new challenges. You have to be quick on your feet and adaptable,” Matthew says. “I love the technology and innovation in the automotive industry, but I also really enjoy seeing my team develop. When something I’ve taught them flourishes in their work, that’s really rewarding.”

A drive to grow and the decision to study

Matthew isn’t someone who sits still for long.

“I’m not one to settle or get comfortable,” he says. “I’m always looking for opportunities to upskill.”

With support from his employer, he enrolled in the New Zealand Diploma in Business (Level 5). He had previously completed the Level 4 First Line Management programme through MITO, so he knew the commitment required but even he didn’t anticipate the timing.

“It ended up being one of the busiest periods our workshop ever had. Balancing it all wasn’t easy, but I still managed to make steady progress.”

Learning that shifted his perspective

For Matthew, the most powerful part of the programme wasn’t the content alone, it was the mindset shift.

“The programme got me looking at everything from a different perspective. A lot of what I did was because that’s how it had always been done. Studying made me stop and ask why, and whether there was a better way.”

One of his biggest areas of growth was understanding and supporting the diverse backgrounds within his team.

“Making sure minorities are well represented and supported is important. Building a positive, inclusive culture makes such a difference.”

This new awareness has changed how he leads; “I reflect more, I involve my team more in discussions and decision-making, and I try to keep an open mind when looking at new processes. It’s helped us work better together.”

Support that made the journey possible

Matthew credits support from both Avon City Ford and Careerforce.

His employer offered an open-door approach, providing resources and guidance whenever needed.

Careerforce assessors Niki Van-Passen, and later Anju Bathla, also played a crucial role.

“They were incredibly helpful. Some content was more office-focused, so being able to talk through how it applied in a workshop setting was really beneficial.”

He found the fully workplace-based self-directed, online model ideal for his busy role, particularly the online based assessments which provided clarity and flexibility.

Crossing the finish line and looking ahead

Matthew completed his Diploma in around 14 months, quicker than most.

“There were tough times when the enjoyment factor was low, but finishing it felt great. It really changed how I look at myself and the organisation.”

And would he recommend the programme to others?

“Absolutely. It’s important to understand the ‘why’ behind what we do, not just follow old habits. The Diploma gives you new tools, helps you reflect, and opens your mind to different approaches.”

A story of growth, leadership, and continuous improvement

From technician to team leader, from habit-driven routines to reflective and inclusive leadership, Matthew’s journey shows what’s possible when curiosity meets opportunity. In an industry evolving as quickly as the vehicles it services, Matthew’s commitment to growth keeps him and his team moving forward.

Matthew is leading, equipped with new knowledge, a fresh perspective, and the confidence gained through his study.

Learn more about the Diploma in Business (Leadership and Management) Level 5.