Young Bike Mechanic Programme launched in Glasgow

Glasgow cycle charity and social enterprise Bike for Good has announced the Young Bike Mechanic Programme which has been designed to provide opportunities for young individuals.

The programme said it is set to redefine skill development and employment pathways within the cycling industry, an area where there is room for improvement.

Funded by Gannochy Trust and the UK Government Levelling Up Fund, the ‘Young Bike Mechanic Programme’ is a programme aimed at providing accredited non-formal learning opportunities for the city’s youth. By engaging in voluntary activities within the community, participants aged between 14 and 21 will undergo a transformative eight-week volunteering experience. Upon completion, they will advance to a two-day Cytech Technical 1 training and assessment, creating a pathway towards a promising career in bike mechanics.

Gregory Kinsman-Chauvet, CEO and Founder of Bike for Good, stated: “Bike for Good is proud to introduce the ‘Young Mechanic’ programme, a groundbreaking initiative that harnesses the power of hands-on learning and community engagement to empower young individuals and foster sustainable employment pathways within the cycling industry. This programme embodies our commitment to fostering a diverse and skilled workforce, while simultaneously contributing to a greener and more equitable future.”

Kasia Sokulska, Bike for Good’s Training and Employability Department Lead, said: “With the generous backing of the Gannochy Trust and the UK Government Levelling Up Fund, Bike for Good proudly launches the ‘Young Bike Mechanic Programme.’ This initiative aims to provide Glasgow’s youth with accredited non-formal learning through community-based voluntary activities, offering tangible pathways to improved employment options. The funders support ensures that this program not only builds mechanical skills but also opens doors to fulfilling careers in the cycling industry, aligning perfectly with our mission to create a greener, more skilled generation dedicated to sustainable transport.”

This initiative aligns with Bike for Good’s overarching vision of creating a more inclusive society by leveraging the power of cycling. The ‘Young Bike Mechanic Programme’ represents a significant step forward in their ongoing efforts to empower the youth and build a vibrant, skilled workforce dedicated to sustainable transportation solutions.

Applications for the ‘Young Bike Mechanic Programme’ are now open to young individuals and organisations across sectors dedicated to enhancing the training and employability of young people. With a goal to train 32 young individuals by March 31st, 2024, this program promises to equip participants with invaluable skills for a career in the cycling industry.

For further details or to apply for the Young Bike Mechanic Programme, please contact us at glasgow@bikeforgood.org.uk.