Name: Joe Mellor
Employer: Tim Walker Restorations
Favourite Heritage Vehicle and Why?
Alfa Romeo 8C 2300. Noise, power and beauty!
Where does your interest in heritage vehicles come from?
As a young boy, my father would often take me to car shows; Goodwood revival was my favourite. The smells and sounds of the heritage cars screeching around the track was exhilarating! I guess I have been hooked ever since.
Where did you go to school/college/work before you joined Heritage Skills Academy?
I was working with Tim Walker Restorations, following a short stint as a Ski instructor in Whistler, Canada.
What made you choose an apprenticeship with Heritage Skills Academy and how did you find out about us?
I had previously seen a fair amount about the course on HSA social media etc. I was very impressed by the structure and professionalism of the course.
What can you tell me about the company you work for?
Tim Walker Restorations started in 1979. Tim, who set the business up, raced an Alvis Speed 20 in VSCC events. This passion soon led to him fixing his car as well as others to keep them racing. Unlike other restoration companies, we do not specialise in any marque or era in particular, we prefer the diversity of working on a wide range of heritage vehicles.
What are the benefits of the apprenticeship programme? Are there any which has surprised you?
The programme is ideal as it will allow me to progress with my career within the restoration industry, and will ensure I have the correct skills and knowledge to safely work independently.
What are the challenges of being on an apprenticeship programme? It can be daunting when working on vintage vehicles, however given the support from both the academy and Tim Walker Restorations, I am comfortable to learn.
What advice would you give someone who was thinking about becoming a Heritage Skills Academy apprentice?
Get involved!
How have you found HSA from initial contact, through to finding an employer?
Great communication with my manager etc. A very smooth operation which I am thoroughly enjoying.
What have you been most impressed with (HSA and/or your employer)?
I have been most impressed with HSA’s approach to Covid safety and ensuring that throughout this difficult time, we are still able to continue learning and developing.
What are your future plans?
I hope one day to own and run my own successful heritage vehicle restoration workshop
