Pullman programme to tackle technician shortage
HGV fleet maintenance giant Pullman Fleet Solutions has announced the launch of GearUp, a programme that combines paid, full-time employment with structured on-the-job training, to help foster the next generation of HGV technicians.
The scheme, which is said to be unlike any currently offered in the sector, offers a direct route into industry and progression towards the IRTEC technician qualification, for individuals who have at least three years’ mechanical experience.
The company says the programme aims to directly address the UK-wide shortage of skilled truck technicians, while helping employers to retain staff and futureproof their workforce.
“Pullman is proud to be leading the way in addressing one of the industry’s biggest challenges – the shortage of skilled HGV technicians,” said Dave Jones, managing director at Pullman Fleet Solutions.
“Technicians are the backbone of this industry. If we want the UK’s fleets to keep moving, we need to invest in the people who keep them roadworthy. With GearUp, Pullman is setting the benchmark for how our industry addresses this challenge.”
GearUp is structured around full-time employment rather than classroom theory. Trainees work alongside experienced HGV technicians at Pullman sites nationwide, gaining practical skills and progressing toward their IRTEC accreditation.
The programme is paid from day one, and GearUp graduates will continue into permanent roles at Pullman, where average salaries range between £40,000 and £55,000 a year for fully skilled technicians, depending on location and shift pattern.
“We’re opening the door to meaningful, long-term careers,” said Sean Derrig, HR manager at Pullman Fleet Solutions.
“GearUp appeals to people with real mechanical ability who’ve hit a ceiling in their current role. They want to step up, build new skills, and get properly qualified. We’re here to make that possible.”
John Mackie, who has successfully completed the GearUp training, commented: “When I first joined, I spent about a month shadowing one of the technicians, just getting a feel for everything. Then I had formal training, which really helped boost my confidence. At this point, I’m working through jobs on my own.”
GearUp is designed for candidates from diverse mechanical backgrounds, including light commercial vehicle mechanics, dealership technicians, or those working in plant, rail, or military engineering. The firm says it is looking for candidates with hands-on experience, a strong work ethic and ambition to grow.
