AutoYouth Alliance unveiled to give apprentices voice
Automotive skills charity AutoRaise has launched the AutoYouth Alliance to help apprentices and young technicians shape the industry.
Launched to mark National Apprenticeship Week, the AutoYouth Alliance brings together apprentices, newly qualified technicians and rising young stars from across the UK to share their experiences, challenge perceptions of apprenticeships, and contribute directly to industry conversations around skills, training and inclusion.
The Alliance has been created in response to ongoing skills shortages across the automotive sector and a growing recognition that young people are often talked about, but rarely heard, in discussions about careers and workforce development.
AYA members will take part in regular virtual sessions and an annual in-person event, creating content, contributing to consultations, and offering insight to employers, training providers and industry partners.
The focus areas include the perception of apprenticeships, inclusivity, communication between employers and learners, mental health, and the modernisation of training.
With the backing of the Steer Group, The Vella Group, Admiral, Car-O-Liner, Acorn, BASF and National Accident Repair (Vizion), the AutoYouth Alliance will be jointly chaired by Isaac Marriott of The Smallest Cog, one of AutoRaise’s patrons, alongside Marcus Rafael from BASF.
Shape the industry
Marriott said: “Automotive careers are built on skill, learning and pride in the work. The AutoYouth Alliance creates space for young people to speak honestly about their experiences and to help shape an industry they want to be part of for the long term.”
Rafael added: “The AutoYouth Alliance creates a practical way for young voices to inform how training, technology and careers develop. That can only strengthen the sector in the long term.”
Emma Speed, managing director of AutoRaise, concluded:
“The AutoYouth Alliance exists because the people entering our industry have insight, experience and ideas that matter. If we want apprenticeships and careers in automotive to evolve, we need to listen to those living it right now, not just speak on their behalf.”
