The skill shortage in the automotive sector has been getting progressively worse for many years. Meeting after meeting the subject is raised with very little action. We do have a Skill shortage but
- Apprenticeships have started to pave the way.
- Workplaces are ‘generally’ safer.
- We talk about coaching and learning more.
- Not all roles have an apprenticeship or recognised route to qualification.
- Not everyone wants to do an apprenticeship.
- The industry is changing!
We quickly recognised that there was a decline in Work Experience and Saturday jobs available. The automotive industry has been one of the most proactive with the development of a variety of apprenticeships but struggles with the ‘pipeline’ of candidates.
The modern-day working environment is ‘generally’ a safer place to work with improved processes and operating standards in place. It is also clear that there are no apprenticeships for all roles particularly non-technical and support organisations, and of course, not everyone wants to be an apprentice, with some students not able to achieve the required entry-level qualifications.
The whole industry is changing, and it is important we inform students in Schools of the opportunities and give them a taste of Work Experience and Saturday jobs.
THE FIRST STEP
Government and organisations focusing on youth employment say that in some sectors the level of work experience and Saturday jobs has declined over the years.
If you ask many individuals working in the automotive sector, they will have started their career paths on a work experience scheme or with a Saturday job
Other sectors such as retail have a good track record with Saturday working for young people, so what has changed to make the automotive sector move away from this opportunity giving young people a taster of the industry?
THE BARRIERS
We have identified barriers that are preventing companies from returning to what was almost an industry tradition in encouraging young people into the industry.
- Health & Safety
- Lack of mentors/supervisors
- Only good for menial tasks
- Perceived to add little value
- Affects productivity
- We’re busy
- Too much hassle
The future depends on what we do today, but today the future of our industry and the talent to drive it forward is in our schools, colleges and communities.
THE NEW WAY
Over the years there has been a stigma around work experience especially with various government schemes. Everyone remembers YOPS and some of the stories. Young people on work experience making the tea, sweeping the floors emptying the bins and going back to school or college thinking this is what work is all about.
We have, to do better and offer a 21st Century work experience to impress and attract new talent. We have, to make our businesses youth-friendly and we have, to include parents and showcase the modern workplace and career paths.
This new generation of young people needs to learn new skills and the modern work experience scheme needs to help them with developing the 5 Employability Skills. Communication, Self-belief, Teamwork, Self-Management and Problem Solving.
We do this by making sure their time with you is structured and interesting.
Helping companies on this journey is important and the 8-Step AWE24 process is there to help companies to keep young people safe in the workplace.
- Be Workplace ready
- Carry out a Risk Assessment
- Provide Safeguarding and a safe place
- Commit to a Work Experience Charter
- An effective induction process
- Match to a mentor
- Agree learning outcomes
- Support and review progress
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