GCA’s ‘Our Aftermarket’ campaign continues with Steve Jarnet
Latest episode included in Garage Talk Unwrapped champions people-first values, long-term growth, and real-world career opportunities across the £21bn aftermarket industry
Glen Callum Associates (GCA) has released the third episode in its ongoing ‘Our Aftermarket’ video series, featuring Steve Jarnet, National Sales Manager at Corteco UK. The campaign was launched to spotlight the breadth of exciting and rewarding careers available across the UK’s £21 billion automotive aftermarket.
These videos are about changing perceptions, unlocking potential, and spotlighting the real opportunities within this dynamic, future-driven industry. It’s about positioning the automotive aftermarket as a career destination, rich in variety, full of promise, and built for long-term success.
In this episode, Steve shares candid reflections on a decades-long career in the trade, rising from grassroots roles to senior leadership, all while championing a people-first approach to business.
“You can have a fantastic career in the aftermarket, whether you’re on the tools or not,” says Jarnet. “If you have the right values, the right ethics, and you treat people properly, the industry can give back tenfold. That’s been my experience.”
Throughout the interview, Steve reinforces the value of relationship-building in the automotive aftermarket. He discusses the importance of empathy, trust, and consistency when dealing with both customers and colleagues, noting that long-term success in the industry is built on people who deliver on their word and are prepared to put in the work.
He also encourages newcomers not to underestimate the potential of the aftermarket. “The opportunities are huge,” he explains, “but it’s not just about technical ability. It’s about your attitude, your willingness to learn, and how you interact with people. This industry rewards those who stick at it, show respect, and stay curious.”
This episode follows earlier interviews with Nigel Duffield while at (PHINIA Delphi) and Neil Grant (HELLA UK). Each brought their own unique perspective to the campaign, showing how the automotive aftermarket offers far more than many realise—with career paths spanning sales, logistics, digital, HR, marketing, product development, and senior management.
“The aftermarket has long been misunderstood,” said Glen Shepherd, Director at GCA. “With this series, we set out to change that. These videos aren’t just about the people we interview—they’re about showing how we’re all connected across this vibrant industry. They demonstrate the support we’ve provided to jobseekers and companies over the years, while highlighting the real human stories behind the trade.”