Automotive skills crisis still chronic despite falling vacancies
Autotech Group has warned that a fall in vacancies does not mean the automotive skills crisis is easing.
The latest IMI Vacancy Tracker reported that automotive vacancies fell by 28% year-on-year to around 13,000 positions.
However, the data also revealed demand for technical and workshop-based roles remains high with technicians, mechanics and electricians up 17% year-on-year and accounting for 72% of all job postings.
Simon King, CEO of Autotech Group, said: “At first glance, some may see falling vacancy numbers as a sign that the skills shortage is easing, but the reality is far more nuanced.
“The latest IMI data shows employers are becoming more selective about where they recruit, while continuing to prioritise the technical skills required to keep workshops productive and profitable. Demand for skilled technicians, diagnostics expertise and specialist capability remains strong.”
Meanwhile, increasing vehicle complexity, an ageing vehicle parc, and growing demand for maintenance mean that demand for technical skills will not soften any time soon.
Training
King concluded: “Filling vacancies remains important, but recruitment alone won’t solve the industry’s workforce challenge. Businesses also need to invest in skills development, create environments where technicians want to build long-term careers and embrace technologies that help existing teams work more efficiently.
“The businesses that will thrive over the next decade are the ones that balance people, skills and technology together rather than treating them as separate challenges.”
