Year 12 student, Rebecca Ruedin, is studying VET Automotive and VET Engineering at BSSC.

Rebecca recently took the opportunity to spend a week at Pedders Suspension & Brakes in Kangaroo Flat, completing Structured Workplace Learning (SWL).

Rebecca was inducted to the business’ sales, warehouse and workshop areas, then got to work assisting the Technicians with the replacement of front suspension – shocks, springs and control arms; learning the art of leaf spring resetting; fitting two inch lift kits on 4WDs and SUVs; learning wheel alignment principles; and completing Brake, Steering & Suspension Checks to support the Technicians in providing safety, quality, reliability and performance advice for road users.

Rebecca enjoys working on all types of vehicles, so this workplace opened the doors to a range of vehicles, from 4WD and SUV, to classics, commercial, performance, mining, and daily drivers. Rebecca has a passion for all-things automotive and is happy to learn about and work on anything.

“It’s what I want to do once school is finished,” says Rebecca. “I’m keen to learn much more: I’ll certainly be looking for an apprenticeship opportunity to start next year in the automotive industry.”

Rebecca had a wonderful experience at Pedders—saying that the team were supportive and very happy to share their knowledge. The SWL was a great chance for Rebecca to apply many of the skills she has learnt in both of her VET subjects.