Textar launches digital training platform to combat skill shortage
Textar, the premium brake brand from leading global brake manufacturer TMD Friction, is launching a new e-learning platform for automotive professionals. The Textar Virtual Academy is a dynamic online platform dedicated to providing the most comprehensive brake training resources and industry updates for automotive professionals. Bringing manufacturer expertise to the aftermarket, the e-learning platform ensures users stay current with the latest advancements in braking technology.
The platform reflects TMD Friction’s support for the automotive aftermarket, as well as its commitment to a safer future of mobility: by providing training opportunities for automotive technicians, the company is both bridging the skills gap in the automotive industry, and contributing to a higher level of road safety by ensuring the correct installation of its braking products.
Starting today, ahead of the official launch of the new Virtual Academy, Textar is running a pre-launch campaign, Best in Braking, that will offer the first 500 people who sign up free access to the platform. As part of the campaign, users earn points for each training module completed to compete against other users globally to improve their ranking in a leaderboard for a chance to win exclusive prizes.
The most comprehensive brake training in the aftermarket
The Textar Virtual Academy offers a new approach to technical training with advanced expertise for both passenger cars and commercial vehicles. It will be the most up-to-date and comprehensive e-learning platform for brakes. With engaging tutorials and an easy-to-use digital interface, training is both intuitive and interactive.
There are 14 hours of virtual training content, including bespoke, interactive training videos, high-quality animations, tutorials, and FAQs – in five different languages. The platform provides unmatched product training for replacing, maintaining, and servicing brakes. Courses are designed to develop practical skills for all levels, from experienced mechanics and technical managers to apprentices and students. Participants also receive a training certificate after completing a course.
Scott Irwin, Head of Technical Training at TMD Friction, said: “With vehicle advancements and industry updates, it is important technicians keep up to date with the developments in brakes. We not only want to inspire and teach the next generation of mechanics, but also support qualified automotive professionals with upskilling and keeping their knowledge fresh in line with the latest vehicle technology. Both garages and their customers will benefit from fewer returns as a result of following best practices.”
In addition to basic skills such as brake replacement, correct fitment, and aftercare, the Textar Virtual Academy also covers the primary principles of regenerative braking systems in hybrid and electric vehicles. The platform will be continually updated with new material to meet the industry’s changing demands.
Saving time and money
The Textar Virtual Academy offers participants the convenience of an online course combined with the expertise from an original equipment supplier. With engaging content and resources, the Academy delivers manufacturer-level knowledge in an easy-to-follow format, which can be accessed on any device.
“The Textar Virtual Academy is an excellent tool to invest in professional development. Whether you’re a garage looking to upskill your employees, a recent graduate looking to learn new skills, or an industry professional trying to brush up your knowledge, the platform is a great way to achieve your training goals while saving time and money,” says Scott Irwin. “The Textar Virtual Academy helps bridge the skills gap by making it more accessible and easier than ever for participants to complete their training at a time that suits them.”
A long history of education and training
Textar is well-placed to offer this training, drawing upon its long-standing training experience and technical expertise. With more than 80 years of premium OE brake friction experience, and 667 hours of in-person and digital training in the past year alone, the trainers at Textar are already accustomed to sharing their knowledge with the industry. The Textar Virtual Academy was specifically developed to bring that knowledge to a wider audience in a new format that is accessible to everyone – without the cost and time constraints of in-person training.
“The feedback from the face-to-face training we deliver has always been excellent, and we have seen a direct reduction in warranty claims globally as a result over the last five years. However, the Textar Virtual Academy helps us to take that training to the next level to provide ongoing support and education to the industry,” says Scott.
The Textar Virtual Academy will initially be available in the U.S., Mexico, and parts of Europe, including the UK, Ireland, Germany, Poland, and Romania. It is available in five languages with plans to expand.
Best in Braking
Textar will kick-off its Best in Braking campaign from 20 January 2025 where the first 500 users to sign up (250 for passenger cars, 250 for commercial vehicles) will be given exclusive free access to the platform for the entire month of February and then be entered into the Best in Braking competition in March. The campaign period will run from 20th January until 15 March. After this, the platform will be available to all users for a fee.