Jackson Matthews: My Journey Through the McIntosh & Son Parts Traineeship

Read about Jackson’s path from shearing and wool pressing to McIntosh & Son Parts and the McIntosh Training Academy. As a recent graduate of the Certificate III in Automotive Sales (Parts Interpreting), he knows first hand what student life is like with McIntosh Training Academy.

Where were you before McIntosh & Son, and how did you end up here?

I was originally in the shearing industry, working as a wool presser and doing landmarking. I didn’t know anything about machines or parts when I started, and was nervous when I applied – but am so glad I decided to give it a go!

How long had you been with McIntosh & Son before beginning the traineeship?

I worked in the McIntosh & Son Katanning parts warehouse for about 2.5 years before the opportunity to become a Parts Interpreter came up. My managers explained the Automotive Sales (Parts Interpreting) traineeship and asked if I wanted to be a part of it. My experience gave me a foundation, but the traineeship took my knowledge to the next level.

How did working in the warehouse help with becoming a Parts Interpreter?

In the warehouse, I got familiar with the parts just by picking them, eventually I started recognising parts and figuring out what they might be used for, which really helped I transitioned to parts interpreting.

Did getting hands-on experience at the parts desk help with the traineeship?

Definitely. Spending time on the parts desk is good for the traineeship because you’re learning the theory then naturally putting it to use.

What was your experience with the McIntosh Training Academy Milestone program?

We had individual projects to manage, which tested our ability to handle tasks independently. Siosi, another trainee, and I worked together on managing the Remote Parts Containers we have installed at Newdegate – so growers can access the parts they need during crucial times like Harvest and Seeding. I enjoyed learning to manage stock, keeping the containers stocked and learning more about parts and processes.

How did your learning progress from the first to the second year of the traineeship?

The first year was mostly learning theory, while the second year was about putting that knowledge into action. The second year was more intense, but it built on everything I had learned before.

I imagine when a customer comes in with a part and you recognise it from your time in the warehouse, the pieces fall together more.

We receive parts from manufacturers like Morris, Miller and New Holland, which really helps put the parts interpreting into perspective. It all comes together when you look at and understand a machine, and you think “that’s the part I’ve picked and that’s what it’s used for.” Even now I look at a tractor or header and think ‘that’s where that goes!’.

How do you help customers find the right parts?

The key is getting accurate information from the customer. If they say they need a chain for the side of a header, the next question is which side. Sometimes, it turns out they actually need something underneath, but a little to the side. Over time, you start recognising common parts right away.

Now that you’ve graduated, what are you most excited about?

I’m looking forward to continuing to learn and finding new parts. I really enjoy the job, and as McIntosh & Son Katanning covers such a large geographical area that there’s always something new coming in. It’s exciting to see new stock and figure out what it’s for.

Interested in a career in Ag?

McIntosh Training Academy is committed to providing a high-quality, immersive learning experience for apprentices like Siosi. With a focus on practical, real-world skills and personalised training, the Academy is shaping the next generation of parts interpretation professionals.

For more information about McIntosh Training Academy and its apprenticeship programs, visit mcintoshacademy.com.au

We are always looking for passionate and enthusiastic people to fill a range of roles within our dealerships. If you think you can add value to our team, head to our website for current opportunities, or contact hr@mcson.com.au for further information.