CoolDrive Continues to Support the Next Generation of Automotive Professionals

26 Nov, 2025

CoolDrive Auto Parts is continuing to develop the next generation of automotive professionals, recently welcoming two talented young female apprentices to a unique behind-the-scenes experience with the Blanchard Racing Team (BRT). 

In the lead-up to the Sandown Supercars event in November, Edie Thurtell and Indianna Choma spent time in the BRT workshop helping the team prepare the cars, before supporting the crew trackside and witnessing first-hand the teamwork, skill, and precision required in professional motorsport. 

As part of the visit, Edie and Indianna also toured CoolDrive’s head office and national distribution centre in Box Hill, gaining valuable insight into the logistics, technology, and operations behind one of Australasia’s largest automotive parts distributors. 

The initiative reflects CoolDrive’s dedication to showcasing the diverse and exciting opportunities available across the automotive and motorsport industries, particularly for young women pursuing careers in the trade. 

“Supporting Edie and Indianna reflects CoolDrive’s commitment to building the next generation of automotive professionals. It was fantastic to see them both embracing the automotive trade with such passion and determination,” said Tim Blanchard, Chief Operating Officer at CoolDrive Auto Parts. 

“At CoolDrive, we believe it’s incredibly important for industry leaders to actively showcase the wide range of opportunities available within the automotive sector, whether in workshops, technical roles, or high-performance motorsport. 

“Apprentices play a vital role in sustaining the automotive workforce, helping fill essential technical roles. However, the industry continues to face challenges in retaining students and apprentices long-term. By opening our doors and creating hands-on experiences, we hope to inspire more young people to see an exciting and rewarding future in our industry.” 

Earlier this year, Edie and Indianna showcased their automotive talents at the 2025 WorldSkills Australia National Championships, both achieving outstanding results, with Edie winning Gold and Indianna taking Silver. 

Edie, from TAFE NSW Wollongbar, is completing her Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology while working at a service workshop in Tweed Heads. She has been selected for the 2026 Skillaroos Training Squad and will represent Australia at the 48th WorldSkills International Competition in Shanghai, China, as well as at the WorldSkills Asia competition in Taiwan later this year. 

Indianna, a third-year apprentice from TAFE NSW Taree, is progressing through her Light Vehicle Mechanical studies and is recognised as one of the country’s rising stars in the trade. 

CoolDrive’s support of Edie and Indianna follows earlier initiatives, including backing Ross Colquhoun, who placed fifth globally at WorldSkills Lyon 2024, by providing him with valuable hands-on experience with BRT during a race weekend. 

Through these opportunities, CoolDrive will continue to champion young apprentices, to strengthen the industry’s talent pipeline, and make the automotive industry an attractive, exciting, and rewarding career pathway for the next generation.