Arnold Clark Linwood Toyota technician David McBride was the proud recipient of Business Apprentice of the Year at the Glasgow Guarantee Awards last Wednesday. These accolades are given by Glasgow City Council through the Glasgow Guarantee program, which encourages and supports young people in the workforce.
David, 18, and his mentor Paul Reynolds spoke to us about his journey so far, what it felt like to win the award, and what’s next in his career.
Sincere congratulations on your recent win! Can you tell us a bit about the award and the ceremony?
David: My mentor Paul encouraged me to apply for this award back in September. I agreed but I never really thought I’d get it. I believe in my skills but I had no idea where I stand compared to others. The ceremony was very nice and I invited Paul and our workshop foreman Alan Orr to accompany me. When they showed the nominees and then said I’ve won, I felt amazing! I was filled with pride.
Paul: The moment they said his name we were on our feet! David was presented with the award by Frank McAveety, Leader of Glasgow City Council. I was so happy for David because I know how far he’s come to win this award – he truly deserves it.
David: Right after I came off the stage I called my mum. She was so happy too!
That’s amazing! Let’s go back to the start – why did you decide to apply for an apprenticeship?
David: Since I was a kid, I’ve always been fascinated by cars. It’s just my passion, so I thought, why not turn passion into a career? I was looking for an avenue to develop my skills. I completed my Level 1 in Light Vehicle Mechanics and joined Arnold Clark in July 2015.
What did you learn in the process?
David: I learned that I should believe in myself more! I am doing better than I ever thought I could. Apart from the technical side of things, I learned a lot about working in a team – we are one big family here at Linwood Toyota and every mechanic knows that you can’t do everything on your own. That’s why you need to work with your colleagues smoothly to get the job done.
Who has been your biggest influence so far?
David: My mentor. He’s been very patient with me – in the beginning I was asking him so many questions, I got worried I was bothering him. Paul is really fantastic – both at work and outside of it. We are good friends, not just colleagues. Also, the supportive work environment makes a big difference – it motivates me.
Paul: I want to say that David deserves this award because he is miles ahead of everyone of his age, and older. He demonstrates much more than is asked from him and takes up jobs that are too advanced for someone in his first year – but he has the ability to do them and he’s really good at following instructions, too.
What’s next for you, career-wise?
David: As with any other career, I would like to progress and go higher and higher, but all in good time. For the time being, I will work as hard as I have so far, learn new things and ask questions, and hopefully my dreams will come true.