Today, students across the country have been collecting their GCSE results following years of study – and along with those getting their A Level, T Level and BTec results last week, will be considering their future career prospects, either through university or apprenticeships. And the automotive industry has never been better placed to attract the next generation.
The vast variety of roles available in automotive makes us a compelling place to work. We’re developing cutting edge technology that’s hitting UK roads, from cars to heavy goods commercial vehicles. This is an exciting time to be entering one of the most dynamic industries in the UK. Advancement in zero emission vehicles is gaining pace – and as we see trucks, vans and buses of all fuel types coming down the road in a few years, we need a future facing generation of technicians.
The UK has a solid track record in manufacturing. As we see more factories shift to produce zero emission vehicles, it will not be just those working in factories building the future vehicles or those maintaining them that is needed, but also the design engineers, marketing and sales roles at dealerships across the length and breadth of the UK.
There is a concern is of a future skills gap emerging, particularly in engineering and manufacturing roles. With automotive in competition with many other industries to attract this next generation of top talent, as ever, we all need to play our part in ensuring that school leavers understand the wealth of opportunity we can offer, in a forward-facing, high-tech industry that keeps the nation on the move.
We also need to ensure our industry properly reflects our society, where everyone can see their opportunity for a rewarding, exciting career. As part of that, SMMT’s second LGBTQ+ and Allies Workshop takes place in Birmingham on 23rd October. This will bring together members to discuss how to make their workplace more inclusive – and the considerable business benefits that brings. If you wish to book, visit: https://www.smmt.co.uk/events/dei-workshop/
