SMMT Transport News Brief

Thursday, September 21, 2017 - 18:20
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Our industry has suffered from skills shortages for a number of years: a severe lack of HGV drivers has most of the attention.

Less obvious but as important is the shrinking cohort of vehicle technicians. Despite considerable efforts and investment by manufacturers and dealers, the pool is just not getting any bigger.

Part of the problem has been the perception, held by some outside the industry, that this is not the place to pursue a successful career. It is of course a perception that is now outdated: working conditions, rewards and status have all improved markedly in recent times.

Similarly, we and many other sectors are still hampered by the belief that an Apprenticeship is the poor relation to a University Education. Thankfully, this seems to be changing. Demand for vocational training courses is increasing and, although still controversial, demand for funds from the Apprenticeship Levy has exceeded expectations.

 

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