BS - Sunday, July 1, 1984 - North Shore News CP r—“CSTCTC‘(C(‘N’T”SNCSC‘d’ FOR FEMALE GRAD Ingenuity lands auto job WITH GOOD jobs hard to find, it sometimes takes a mixture of education, deter- Mination, and a bit of in- genuity to prove you’re worth an employer’s risk. Debbie Hendriks, a recent graduate from-Fraser Valley College’s Automotive Parts/Counter program landed her new job with just such a combination. After two months of per- sistently searching for a job Hendriks was called for an interview at Middliegate Hon- da in Burnaby. Determined to prove her ability in the traditionally male world of auto parts, she took a thick No matter what model car your cw protesstonalisan quaarantee baat werk pile of test papers and assignments from her course along to the interview. When her prospective employees realized that they weren't able to answer many of the questions which she had done successfully, she was offered a full-time position. At 27, Hendriks is one of several women finding that there are challenging jobs in the trades area. She had previously worked for several years as an auto body painter but was determined to find a new direction for her career. During her nine months in. the Parts/Counter program, Hendriks worked through a self-paced course which com- bined theoretical knowledge of automotive parts, similar to that studied by apprentice mechanics, as well as record keeping, invoicing, and public relations. According to instructor Larry Brown, one of the chief requirements of the program is ‘‘someone who enjoys working with the public.’’ The Parts/Counter facilities at the new Ab- botsford campus include a fully stocked automotive parts store which provides realistic work experience for students who fill orders from the adjacent mechanics shop. The flexibihty of being able to work at their own NORTH SHORE. drivers Daryl Cornwell, Ken Stobbart and Grant Westwood Racing circuit recently. All three riders are on Suzuki sponsored 750ce motorcycles speed has proven an advan- tage for many students. **You’ve really got to push yourself,’” says Hendriks, recalling the need for self discipline within the open structure of the course. ‘‘l had to work hard, but when ! did I learned quickly.”’ Another woman student presently completing the course found that the flex- ibility in the program allowed her to do much of her tex- book work at home where she could also be with her four-year-old son. Most students in the Parts/Counter program are able to complete the course in 7-8 months. Debbie Hendriks photo submitted Turner finished 2od, Sth and oth at ( oguittam’s cmat pre derss eoupualpornvesrit ae! wh poet ba then MON FHKE 6 30 5 30 Sesvine and Body Shop SAT 9 00 4 00 Service and Pree ft attmatce ce ‘ err Sig Peter Brand Motors 1519 Clyde Ave Went Vancouve: 922-3231 OPH VE Gat FE OEE hoe! be STEVE Eeritish (onmtinental Motors is pleased to announce The apporitiient of Mr Soleve Soskatiniert formerly of MC to Motor © ar. Ssteever weld (ike toy wavite: tire Crvenets, Afig oc tert toy drape try fora Com suilbarticotr cof plas too vissil British & Continental Motors AS, OC bl eerraboece tae Rover Ny v 985 1833 Service was one of 20 graduates last year, of whom 80 per cent have found jobs in positions directly related to their training. “It’s never boring,’’ says Debbie Hendriks of her new job. ‘‘I’m busy making an in- voice, going for parts, or helping a mechanic find. the right tool ... no day is ever the same, and I’m always learning something new.”’ At present her experience with a computerized catalogue system at her new Replace - clutch disc CLUTCH SPECIAL Most cars *L DO” pars Sor includes - throw-out bearing - pressure plate - 6 month warranty - free courtesy cars ‘We will make or brake all competitors prices RITCHIE 1525 WELCH ST., NORTH VANCOUVER i 987-7111 job has led Hendriks to com- puter night courses which may provide even greater op- portunities in the future. The Automotive Parts/Counter program at Fraser Valley College accepts new students on a continuous basis, and is presently look- ing for candidates for the course. Interested persons can get additional informa- tion at any Fraser Valley Col- lege Office or contact the Public Information office at 792-0025. includes SERVICE CENTRE BCAA APPROVED JAVE BUCK Call The body shop that's Free courtes ull heart. Cars by appoint- ment. Complete bo restoration and pain y repairs Ing. ICBC repairs welcome. Bring your vehicie in for a free estimate. Open Monday to Friday 8:30-5:00. Bill Schultz, Mer, tty gs"