The Motor Traders’ Association of New South Wales (MTA NSW) has expressed support for the new apprenticeship programs announced by the NSW Government’s Automotive Training Board.
These new programs focus on Electric Vehicle (EV) technology and aim to help the automotive industry keep up with the growing demand for skilled workers as the world moves towards electric cars.
The two new apprenticeship programs include
- Automotive – Electric Vehicle Technology – Heavy Vehicle: AUR32721 Certificate III in Automotive Electric Vehicle Technology
- Automotive – Electric Vehicle Technology – Light Vehicle: AUR32721 Certificate III in Automotive Electric Vehicle Technology
These programs are the result of the collaboration between the MTA NSW and the Automotive Training Board. The goal is to make sure that workers have the skills needed to help NSW’s automotive industry stay competitive as electric vehicles become more common.
Preparing for the Future
In a report, MTA NSW said that it has long pushed for better strategies to address the skills shortage in the automotive industry. By introducing these new EV apprenticeships, the government is taking an important step toward preparing the workforce for the future.
Collin Jennings, head of MTA NSW’s government relations and advocacy, said, “We’re delighted to see the government has listened to the concerns of the industry and taken these steps to address the skills shortages in our critical automotive sector.”
However, he also pointed out that more action is needed. He stressed that the NSW government should approve new EV repair licenses. Additionally, it should create better ways for current workers to learn the skills they need.
Licensing Delays Affect the Industry
A big concern for the industry is the delay in approving EV repair licenses. The government passed the Motor Dealers and Repairers Bill more than a year ago. However, the industry is still waiting for these important licenses.
“More than a year has passed since the Motor Dealers and Repairers Bill passed the Parliament,” Jennings said. “Yet the industry remains in limbo and no closer to these crucial licences being approved.”
He explained that this delay is preventing the current workforce from gaining the skills needed to repair electric vehicles. It is also creating problems for people who need those services.
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