Former Hadlow College student Dean Pearman has reached the pinnacle of Harley-Davidson technical excellence, winning European (EMEA) Technician of the Year after retaining his UK title for a second year and finishing second in the world.
Dean began his journey at Hadlow College in 2015, enrolling on the Motorcycle Maintenance and Repair Level 2 course. From day one, he demonstrated the focus and determination that separate good technicians from great ones. After successfully completing Level 2, he progressed straight onto the Level 3 Diagnostics course, developing advanced electrical and fault-finding skills crucial for modern motorcycles.
It was during his Level 2 studies that Dean secured a work experience placement with Maidstone Harley-Davidson, a move that would shape his career.
From work experience to full-time technician
Success in the motorcycle industry doesn’t happen overnight. It requires dedication, technical excellence, ongoing professional development, and a genuine passion for the trade.
Dean’s professionalism and work ethic quickly made him stand out. His work placement evolved into part-time employment alongside his studies, and upon completing Level 3, he transitioned seamlessly into a full-time role with the dealership.
From there, Dean’s progression was driven by both talent and dedication. Through the globally respected Harley-Davidson training programme, he advanced through every technical milestone, from trained Technician all the way through to Master Technician.
Top of the industry
Dean’s career reached an exciting milestone in 2024 when he was awarded UK Technician of the Year, before finishing as runner-up at the European level.
For many, that would have been enough. Dean returned in 2025 with renewed determination, retaining his UK Technician of the Year title and going on to win European Technician of the Year (EMEA). This prestigious award places him at the very pinnacle of Harley-Davidson technical excellence across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, recognising exceptional diagnostic ability, technical knowledge, speed, accuracy, and professionalism under pressure.
Kevin Pilcher, Head of Curriculum for Hadlow’s Automotive Department, said:
“Dean’s journey is an inspiring example for current and future learners. It demonstrates what is possible with commitment, the right training, and a willingness to continuously improve.
“When I caught up with Dean to congratulate him, his response was characteristically humble. He stated that he couldn’t have achieved this success without the early support he received during his time on the course. Hearing that is immensely rewarding.
“While Dean’s success is entirely his own, it reinforces something we firmly believe: strong foundations matter. Technical confidence, structured diagnostics training, and high standards set early in a technician’s career create the platform for long-term industry excellence.
“We are incredibly proud to call Dean one of our former students and look forward to watching the next chapter of his already outstanding career.”
Dean’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact that dedication, training, and early support can have in shaping a world-class career in the motorcycle industry.
Find out more about motor vehicle courses at Hadlow College.
