Celebrating Gaby’s Success: From Work Experience to Qualified Technician

It’s with immense pride and excitement that we celebrate the journey of Gaby, one of our dedicated apprentices, who has recently completed her New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering (level four). This milestone marks a significant achievement in Gaby’s career, and it’s one that we at Pacific Toyota have had the privilege to witness from the very beginning.

Gaby first entered the Pacific Toyota team as a work experience student in 2022, working one day a week, while completing her level three Automotive Engineering Certificate through Toi Ohomai. Even as a student, it was clear that Gaby wasn’t just here to gain experience, she was also here to learn, work hard, and excel. From the start, her eagerness to understand the technical side of the trade was matched only by her unwavering determination. Whether it was her approach to a mechanical job or her attitude in the workplace, Gaby has always displayed the dedication and effort of someone on the path to success. It was not unusual for her to literally run to get the job done, always going above and beyond expectations, taking initiative wherever possible.

Recognising this work ethic and enthusiasm, Pacific Toyota was thrilled to offer her a permanent position as an apprentice in 2022, where she has become an integral part of the team.

Pacific toyota team

Left to right: Toi-Ohomai Automotive Tutors’ Wayne Sadler and Mark Davies, Gaby Absalom and Wayne O’Neill from Pacific Toyota.

“It gives Wayne and me great pleasure to see Gaby succeed in completing her level four certificate and to see her grow, not only in her technical ability but her personal growth too.” Dave Milne, Pacific Toyota Service Manager

This year Gaby has not only completed her level four certification but also achieved Toyota Accredited Technician status—an incredible feat that reflects her knowledge and commitment to excellence in automotive engineering. Gaby’s love of motorsport contributes greatly to her passion inside the workshop, she’s certainly not one to shy away from hard work—whether it be elbow-deep in an engine job or in the pits at the speedway!

The new year brings new ambitions, and for Gaby, this means getting into some Diagnostic Technician training to elevate her skill levels further. Gaby’s success is a testament to her hard work, resilience, and passion for her craft. We are confident the future holds great opportunities for her, and we look forward to continuing to support her as she reaches new heights in her career.

Careers with the Miles Group

From humble beginnings in Christchurch, our founder Bruce Miles has lifted the bar for New Zealand’s automotive industry for over 40 years. Dedicated to each brand we represent; the Miles Group prides itself on cultivating a strong team that makes our dealerships best in class.  

We’re the perfect place to start or continue your automotive career in New Zealand. As a people-focused business, we believe our commitment to our team is the key to success. If our team is motivated, happy, skilled, and well-resourced, then our team will look after our customers.

We are one of New Zealand’s leading independent automotive groups and have a variety of jobs in the car industry available across the country. All roles come with exceptional levels of support, training, and opportunities for career advancement throughout our group.

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