From Work Experience to Qualified Technician

What started as work experience for Gaby Absalom has turned into a budding career.

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 Institute of Technology. 

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.

“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,” says Pacific Toyota Service Manager Dave Milne. 

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.

This article was originally published on https://www.milesgroup.co.nz/

Pictured from left: Toi Ohomai Automotive Tutors’ Wayne Sadler and Mark Davies, Gaby Absalom and Wayne O’Neill from Pacific Toyota.