Building a careerin heavy vehicle maintenance: Cameron's apprenticeship journey with Torrens Transit

When Cameron first applied for an MTA apprenticeship, he pictured a future working on trucks. But when the opportunity arose to join Torrens Transit as a Heavy Commercial Vehicle Apprentice, he took a chance — despite knowing almost nothing about buses.

Today, that leap of faith has turned into a rewarding, hands‑on career.

Learning on the job — and loving it

Now completing his Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Technology, Cameron spends his days helping keep Adelaide’s bus fleet moving. As a third‑year apprentice, no two days look the same. His mornings might start with services and defect fixes for peak dispatch. By the afternoon, he could be replacing brakes, diagnosing complex faults, fitting head gaskets or supporting fleet maintenance.

“That’s the best part of the job — no two days are ever the same.”

Growing skills, confidence and mechanical capability

Throughout his apprenticeship, Cameron has developed both technical and personal skills — from teamwork and communication to advanced diagnostics. The skill he’s most proud of is his ability to diagnose issues and repair them to a high standard.

“It’s amazing to look back and see how much I’ve improved since I first started.”

Supported every step of the way

A key strength of Cameron’s experience is the support he receives from the team. Managers, leading hands and fellow mechanics are always willing to answer questions, explain repairs or walk him through new systems.

“Everyone is happy to help — whether it’s explaining a repair or showing me something new.”

Discovering the world behind the buses

Before joining Torrens Transit, Cameron had no idea how intricate and customised buses could be. From model‑specific layouts to tightly engineered rear‑end systems, he’s continually impressed by the complexity.

“It’s incredible to see how one bus differs from another.”

Cameron’s advice for aspiring apprentices

His message is simple: take the leap.

“There are many unknowns when you first start, but you adjust, adapt and learn heaps along the way.”

Looking ahead

Cameron hopes to become a qualified mechanic with the company and step into a leading role in the future. With emerging bus technologies on the horizon, he’s excited to keep learning and be part of the innovation ahead.

Hands‑on learning that sticks

While classroom learning plays its part, Cameron says nothing compares to getting under the vehicle, tools in hand.

“The easiest way to learn is by physically doing it.”

A team that makes a difference

Cameron describes the Torrens Transit workshop as friendly, approachable and committed to helping him grow — not just as a mechanic, but as a person.

“Having that support behind me encourages me to produce efficient, high‑quality work.”

Cameron’s journey highlights the real‑world learning, strong mentorship and career opportunities available for the next generation of public transport professionals at Torrens Transit.

www.jointransit.com.au