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While it is already widely acknowledged that there is a growing shortage of young people joining the motor trade as vehicle technicians, little is being done to solve this alarming issue at present. If current trends continue, the industry will be looking at a severe skills drop-off within the next 20 years as current mechanics reach retirement age, with not enough younger mechanics to replace them, apprenticeships could be the solution to this long-standing issue.
To this end, and in recognition of National Apprentice Week, here’s how starting an apprenticeship programme at your company could be a great choice in 2019.
Hiring an apprentice is not only a great way to future-proof your business, but it’s also a chance to inject new ideas into your workplace. With technology advancing at such a fast rate in the motor trade, it’s a fantastic opportunity to get the most out of the tech-savvy generation.
As well as being a great way to pass on knowledge and prepare for future trends, apprenticeships also bring huge benefits to your business. A 2018 study by ICS Learn found that of the companies surveyed:
- 98% found that apprentices were value for money
- 90% said apprentices boosted productivity
- 96% planned to hire more apprentices in the future
- 86% of apprentices developed skills needed by their organisation
- 80% saw an improvement in staff morale from hiring an apprentice
Mandla, our Head of Training at Autotech Recruit, also highlighted the need for more businesses to invest in the future of the motor industry by offering more opportunities for young people to enter automotive work:
“From experience, an apprenticeship is a great way to start off in the automotive industry. As a former apprentice it gave me, and will give others valuable experience within a workshop environment.”
One of the other benefits of setting up an apprenticeship programme is the boost it gives staff retention. In marketing, it’s fairly set in stone that it’s cheaper and more efficient to retain a customer than to get a new one. This theory also rings true in recruitment. If you invest the time and effort into giving an aspiring young mechanic a chance in your business, they are very likely to repay that faith with loyalty to you in the future.
Now you know the benefits, are you interested in contributing to the future of the motor industry? If so, have a look at the government’s guide to employing an apprentice here.