Over 1,000 newly qualified young mechanics looking for work

• Autotech Academy says the need to create job opportunities for fresh talent in the industry is ‘urgent’

According to the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), the automotive sector could see a shortage of 51,000 vehicle technicians by 2030. The core of this issue lies in the difficulties newly qualified vehicle technicians encounter when trying to secure their first roles within the motor trade. This challenge not only prevents the career growth of these promising professionals but also widens the industry's skill gap, threatening its future sustainability.

Through its innovative paid internship programme, Autotech Academy offers newly qualified automotive students a unique opportunity to gain vital industry experience and, currently, there are over 1,000 graduates signed up to the programme eagerly seeking their first role, equipped and ready to contribute to the motor trade.

As part of the internship programme, each intern is provided with a complete tool kit and uniform, ensuring they are ready to work from day one. Autotech Academy conducts thorough interviews and evaluations, saving employers significant time and resources in the hiring process. Interns receive hourly pay from Autotech Academy throughout their 6-12 month placement, alleviating any employment or PAYE issues for the employers.

At the end of this period, they either secure permanent employment with the employer or move on with valuable experience. During the internship employers have the chance to assess interns' capabilities and fit within their business, offering a risk-free way to ‘grow their own’ talent.

Since its launch in 2021, Autotech Academy has placed almost 400 interns into the industry, with over 95% going on to secure permanent employment if they complete the programme. While many lack hands-on experience, each intern has at least a Level 3 qualification in Light Vehicle Repair and Maintenance and will quickly become a valuable resource and additional pair of hands to an automotive business.

Current automotive industry skills gap

With an estimated current skills gap of between 3,000 to 9,000 technicians, the urgency for fresh talent in the automotive industry cannot be overstated. Autotech Academy addresses this critical need by ensuring newly qualified students are not lost to other sectors due to a lack of initial opportunities.

By integrating these young technicians into the workforce, Autotech Academy is contributing to a more sustainable and skilled future for the automotive industry.

James Mackay, Managing Director of Autotech Academy, stresses the importance of this initiative: "The automotive industry is at a crossroads. Without immediate action to integrate new talent, we risk deepening the skills shortage that threatens the entire sector. Our internship solution not only provides these newly qualified automotive students with essential experience but also offers employers a seamless way to assess and cultivate new talent. It’s a win-win solution that we believe can change the trajectory of the industry."