Training, development & wellbeing 52 www.aftermarketonline.net NOVEMBER 2025 Future workforce grounded in technical education and apprenticeships Overdue step in right direction for apprenticeships A new government target of getting two-thirds of young people into higher-level learning marks vital progress. But Emma Carrigy, head of research, careers and inclusion at the IMI, says it does not go far enough and urgent action is still needed Over the past decade, no sector has transformed more rapidly than automotive. Driven by an unprecedented wave of new technologies designed to make vehicles safer, cleaner and more efficient, the industry now faces enormous pressure across every area. With over 14,000 vacancies currently unfilled, many businesses are already struggling with damaging skills shortages, and others fear they soon will. Attracting new talent and upskilling the existing workforce has therefore never been more critical, not only for the success of automotive businesses, but also for the safety of everyone on the road. Apprenticeships have long provided an effective way for automotive employers to bring in fresh talent, and the range of roles now available through this route is expanding rapidly. As vehicles — and the businesses that support them — become more digital and data-driven, apprenticeships now offer exciting career opportunities both in and beyond the workshop. The Institute of the Motor Industry welcomes the government’s shift away from the outdated target of sending 50% of young people to university, and towards building a future workforce grounded in technical education and apprenticeships. However, while this represents an important step in the right direction, it is only the beginning. The IMI has long argued that apprenticeships and technical education must stand shoulder to shoulder with university degrees, equal in status, funding and career opportunity. It is encouraging that policymakers now recognise this principle, but “gold-standard apprenticeships” must amount to more than rhetoric. To make the system work, the UK needs clear definitions, funding reform, better support for employers in accessing levy funds, and a stronger focus on completions, retention and wage progression The action can’t just be focused on the number of apprenticeship starts. The automotive industry stands at a pivotal moment. The transition to EVs, the wider adoption of ADAS, and the growing demand for digital and data expertise are reshaping the sector. Yet the persistent skills gap is holding back productivity, weakening the economy, and — most alarmingly — threatening road safety. Small and medium-sized enterprises, which form the backbone of the industry, urgently need additional support and reform of the Apprenticeship Levy. At the same time, employers must do more to inspire the next generation with clear, inclusive and rewarding career pathways. Initiatives such as the IMI’s ‘More to Motor’ campaign have made important progress in widening access and improving retention, but there is still a long road ahead. As the professional body working hand-in-hand with the industry, the IMI is uniquely positioned to lead this transformation. Our ‘Driving the Future of Automotive Professionals’ manifesto (https://bit.ly/47nbp5O) sets out the urgent actions required and calls for closer collaboration to break down the barriers that restrict growth. To truly secure the sector’s future, government and industry must work together and agree on what a genuine gold-standard for apprenticeships really looks like. And that conversation must happen now.
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