Damian’s Journey into Heavy Diesel Mechanics at CAL Isuzu
Ever wondered what it’s like to work on trucks and keep them running?
Damian Clarke didn’t start out as a mechanic… but growing up around trucks sparked something in him — a fascination that eventually turned into a career he loves.
Now he’s working hands-on every day, solving problems, learning new skills, and keeping the wheels of the transport industry turning.
If you’re curious about what it takes, or you’re thinking about getting into a practical, hands-on trade, Damian shares what the job is really like and his advice for anyone starting out.
Check out his story and see whether a career in the automotive world could be your next step…
Damian Clarke
Heavy Diesel Mechanic
Damian’s Career Advice
“Just work hard, ask questions and be keen to learn.”
A chat with Damian about his role
What do you do for work?
Working on trucks’ electrical and mechanical systems, and diagnosing and servicing.
How did you get into this job/career?
Growing up, my Dad was a truck driver, so I always had an interest in trucks. And then I couldn’t actually get my license to drive a truck till I was 20, so I sort of needed something to fill in the time. When I started being a mechanic, I decided I actually liked it a lot, so I just stuck with it.
Have you completed/are you working to complete any study or qualifications?
I just did a Heavy Diesel Apprenticeship through CAL Isuzu. The apprenticeship is sort of half and half; you get all the theory stuff which you just do at home online. Most of it really is in the workshop, learning as you go. I really enjoyed doing the practical work. I find you always just learn the most in the workshop doing stuff and learning off your workmates.
What technical skills have you learnt on the job?
Probably mostly just scanning trucks and doing the diagnostic stuff. You see, servicing and the general maintenance is pretty straightforward. You have to think pretty hard doing the diagnostics. It’s been really good to learn.
What do you love about your job?
I just like the challenge and learning stuff every day. I don’t think you ever stop learning in this job; even if you’ve been doing it for 50 years, there’s always something new to learn. So, it keeps it interesting.
What has been your biggest challenge and how have you overcome it?
Probably my biggest challenge has been understanding the wiring side of the trucks—just how much electronics there are in it. I guess I’ve overcome it by just learning from other people and just giving it a go really.
Damian Clarke
Heavy Diesel Mechanic
Damian’s Top Tips
What approach do you have to work/life balance?
I think it’s important for you to work hard in the winter months or whenever the weather is bad and sort of look forward to your summer as your time off. I do a lot of four-wheel driving during the summer, so I tend to work real hard and do a lot of overtime in the winter months. Having a hobby to look forward to feels rewarding.
What opportunities/positions can lead on from here?
Doing an apprenticeship broadens your horizons and opens up a lot of opportunities in this career. You could, for example, even move into the Sales Department if you want to get into selling trucks. I think it’s really good to be a mechanic first so you really know the different components inside and pretty much the build.
Is there anything you wish you knew before leaving school?
Probably try harder in school because just being good at learning things and picking up things quickly is quite important and a really good skill to have. Even if subjects don’t seem relevant, it’s still good to be good at learning them.
CAL Isuzu – NZ’s truck powerhouse based in Waikato
CAL Isuzu is New Zealand’s largest Isuzu truck dealership, helping keep the country moving for over 35 years. Known for innovation and teamwork, the company offers exciting career opportunities for people who love big machines and hands-on work.
What CAL Isuzu does
- Sells new and used trucks – from light-duty rigs to heavy-duty giants.
- Custom engineering – modifying trucks to suit any job.
- Servicing + repairs – keeping fleets on the road and running smoothly.
- Parts + accessories – everything a truck needs, when it needs it.
- Panel + paint – making trucks look sharp after a tough day’s work.
Why CAL Isuzu stands out
- A family-founded business that puts people first.
- Branches across Hamilton, Auckland, Tauranga, and Whangarei.
- Uses the latest technology in trucks and engineering.
- A culture that values ideas, problem-solving, and hands-on learning.
- Winner of multiple Metro Group Grandmaster Awards – a big deal in the truck world!
Has there been a stand-out memory for you in this role?
I guess not long after I started, we had a truck that had been in an accident. We had to strip everything off of it and get it down to a bare chassis so it could be straightened and all that. And they put me on that job and yeah, we pretty much put it all back together and it worked and it hasn’t come back yet. I felt like it was a big achievement for me.
What do you enjoy about working at CAL Isuzu?
I like the people I work with. I just bonded real well with them and they’ve been real helpful from the start. They’re just like the best people to learn off, I think. Here at CAL Isuzu they help you grow and develop your skills to help you progress into different roles.
Careers for Go-Getters
CAL Isuzu offers pathways for anyone interested in mechanics, engineering, or sales. Whether it’s fixing trucks, designing custom builds, or helping customers find the right vehicle or part, there’s a role for every passion.
Grab a Snapshot of Damian’s Career Profile
