By definition, a dream job has to be one that people fantasise about. Such a job that also pays the bills is even further from reality.
But to Jerry Ahlin, the term “dream job” is probably an alien word. As one of the lead instructors in Audi’s International Driver Training squad, Ahlin’s day at the office involves jet-setting to various circuit locations around the world where the Audi Sportscar Experience is conducted.
This is where he shares his driving expertise and skills with Audi owners and motor sport enthusiasts, and throws in a few flying laps around the track before calling it a day. While the rest of us spend our workdays driving colleagues up the wall, Ahlin gets to not just drive the latest and most powerful Audis, he pushes them to their limits as well. It is no wonder he has been at it for the past 15 years.
The 48-year-old Swede is a veteran rally driver in terrains ranging from tarmac and gravel to snow and ice, having had over a decade’s experience in racing in the Group A Championship of the WRC. So who better to impart lessons in track driving skills and safe handling manoeuvres? Under the watchful eyes of Ahlin and his team of instructors, who freely give expert driving tips, participants are guaranteed a rewarding experience.
But Ahlin isn’t in the business of making Sebastian Loebs and Marcus Gronholms out of Average Joes. “We are not training racecar drivers,” he said. “If participants can take home with them safer driving techniques, and be better able to handle different road conditions, we would have done our jobs.”
Ahlin adds that these programmes are a great way for drivers to have fun while learning under a safe environment and expert guidance. But having said that with an unmistakable hint of seriousness, we know that out there on the tracks, he tolerates no nonsense.
