Bridging the gap with BPW technician training
BPW Limited has highlighted the critical challenge being faced by many commercial vehicle workshops due to difficulties recruiting sufficient technicians.
“A shortage of qualified technicians is posing a significant threat to the transport industry and jeopardising the efficiency and safety of commercial vehicles on our roads,” said BPW.
“To address this issue, workshops are taking proactive measures and investing in comprehensive training to ensure a steady supply of skilled workers to meet industry demand. The industry relies on the expertise of workshop technicians to maintain commercial vehicles. However, as more experienced technicians retire and a shortfall of young professionals with the necessary skills emerges, workshops are finding it difficult to fill crucial positions.
“According to the Institute of the Motor Industry (March 2026), the automotive and maintenance sector faces an ongoing structural skills deficit. Vehicle technician postings account for a massive 24 per cent of all job postings in the sector. This can not only affect workshop productivity but also compromise the safety and reliability of commercial vehicles, posing risks to both drivers and the public.”
In response, BPW Limited says it can offer a comprehensive suite of specialised training solutions.
“Designed to support fleet operators and safeguard vehicle longevity, BPW’s training initiatives bridge the gap between technical demand and field expertise, delivering high-quality, hands-on instruction across the UK and Ireland,” said the company.
“To maximise fleet performance, BPW recognises the importance of training and that BPW running gear is an investment worth protecting to ensure longevity, efficiency, and performance. If the equipment is properly maintained, fleet operators can also expect less downtime, longer service intervals, and ultimately greater profit.”
The company offers an Axle and Suspension Service and Maintenance Course at its fully equipped Leicester training centre. The one-day course covers the patented BPW Eco hub system, drum and disc braking technology, self-steer axles, and the full range of BPW suspension systems. It also provides practical, hands-on learning and information on diagnostic and replacement techniques.
“Delegates who successfully complete the course leave with high-quality training and can return to their workplace with confidence, knowing they have been trained by experienced BPW engineers.”
The course is delivered through partnerships with GTG Training in Glasgow, Scotland, and Transport Training Services (TTS) in Crumlin, Northern Ireland. BPW engineers deliver the course, ensuring customers in Scotland and Ireland have local access to the service and maintenance programme.
Michael Stayman, aftermarket and maintenance network manager at BPW Limited, highlighted the success of the BPW-Approved course, noting that more than 3000 delegates have now been trained.
“There is no official legislation governing trailer technicians’ training, so in recent years we have worked hard to establish a high standard of service and maintenance training that is now well recognised within the industry,” he said.
While mastering physical running gear is essential for vehicle safety and longevity, modern fleet efficiency relies equally on digital innovation, says BPW. Beyond its core service and maintenance programmes, it provides comprehensive telematics training to help operators unlock the full value of their fleet management data.
“Tailored to the specific needs of each operator and user group, sessions can be delivered either face-to-face or remotely via Microsoft Teams, ensuring practical, day-to-day relevance. Training begins with a deep dive into the BPW telematics portal, ensuring users can confidently navigate its features from day one.”
Sessions cover user setup, management, and geofence creation; track-and-trace functionality and the portal’s brand-new dashboard interface; and configuring custom alarms and exception reporting.
To ensure immediate operational benefits, BPW helps users configure their preferred reporting structures during the session, so the most actionable data reaches their desks first. Comprehensive user guides are also available to download directly from the portal for future reference.
“Recognising that successful fleet management starts on the workshop floor, BPW’s experienced engineers provide hands-on, on-site installation training for technicians,” said the firm.
“Backed by official installation documentation, this training ensures best-practice procedures are followed from the outset. Crucially, the team also guides operators in interpreting key performance data, including Electronic Brake Performance Monitoring Systems (EBPMS) and Roller Brake Tester (RBT) reports, enabling fleets to monitor system health with confidence and remain compliant.
“BPW’s commitment doesn’t end when training concludes. Operators retain direct access to BPW’s internal and external engineering expertise throughout their system’s lifecycle. Whether you need on-site troubleshooting, remote technical support, or help with complex technical investigations, BPW works alongside your team to maximise your telematics investment.”
