New IMI analysis has underlined the stark automotive skills challenge facing the industry in the UK.
It has identified an ageing workforce, issues around attracting new talent, and a lack of government support as critical threats to the sector.
According to IMI data, 47% of the automotive workforce is over 45, while women comprise just 18.6% of the workforce compared to 50% nationally, while only 10.4% of senior roles are held by women and female representation in senior automotive roles has actually declined by 12.3% over the last three years.
Meanwhile, disabled workers represent 16.2% of the workforce, with just 9.8% of disabled workers in senior roles, and representation of non-white British workers has been recorded at 19.9%.
Race for talent
Nick Connor, CEO of the IMI, said: “UK automotive cannot afford to lose in the race for talent, yet right now not enough is being done to future-proof the sector.
“While some progress has been made in recent years, with an increase being seen in the number of women, non-white British and disabled workers entering the sector, the time is now to do everything possible to attract new, young talent.”
He continued: “The IMI is championing a more inclusive future through initiatives like our ‘More to Motor’ campaign and partnerships aligned to the Gatsby Benchmarks, as well as working with industry bodies like the Automotive 30% Club, of which we are a Gold Partner.
“We’re also using our voice to influence policy, including our submission to the Government’s Parental Leave and Pay Review, to help remove structural barriers that limit women’s participation and progression in their careers.”
Employer responsibility
Connor added: “But we also need employers to step up. Our data shows that diverse automotive businesses outperform their peers by 25% so it’s hard to understand why we are still seeing such small improvements across the sector.
“It is also critical that government recognises the fundamental role of automotive to the UK economy. Without reforms to skills funding, Industrial Strategy investment, and the national recognition of competence standards such as IMI TechSafe, workforce diversity and skills development risks will continue to undermine the sector, despite government expecting it to deliver on net zero targets.”
