Two western suburbs car enthusiasts have set off for the US to continue their apprenticeships with Mercedes-Benz.
Ardeer’s Mattin Nguyen and Burnside’s John Galvez were offered scholarships to train with the German car manufacturer in California, beginning late June.
The pair are part-way through completing a certificate III in light vehicle mechanical technology with Mercedes-Benz Melbourne.
Mr Galvez said he was looking forward to a “life changing experience” in America.
The 23-year-old has always loved cars and began helping family and friends with car repairs from an early age.
He said, despite struggling to land an apprenticeship straight out of school, he was lucky enough to be taken on by Mercedes-Benz.
“Once I started, I had a whole new list of responsibilities that I had never had before,” Mr Galvez, now a fourth-year apprentice, said.
“To be successful in my trade, I think you always have to be willing to learn and improve.”
Mr Nguyen, 22, grew up under the bonnet helping his brother tinker with cars.
He’s now a third-year apprentice, and says he is thrilled to have the opportunity to develop his skills overseas.
“Giving me the opportunity to fly to America is a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” he said.
His time with Mercedes follows a stint working in a local garage.
The scholarships were presented last month by Training and Skills Minister Steve Herbert.
