3 minute read
Graduation and Awards
from MTA SA November 2024
by Boylen
2024 MTA Automotive Graduation and Awards
The automotive industry’s future looks brighter than ever as a record of more than 500 guests gathered to celebrate at the Motor Trade Association’s 2024 Automotive Graduation and Awards Ceremony. Among the evening’s highlights was the crowning of Eli Moss as the 2024 Apprentice of the Year. In his acceptance speech, the Agricultural Machinery Technology apprentice employed at Emmetts Crystal Brook extended his gratitude to his support network – his family, friends, employer, and the MTA– for their constant support throughout his remarkable apprenticeship journey.
“The ceremony showed the high calibre and dedication from apprentices and businesses in South Australia and gives us confidence in this industry for many years to come,” said Spirit Super director and automotive industry member Geoff Lowe.
With numerous young talents receiving awards, the evening was a fitting celebration of some of the best and most promising in the industry.
MTA SA/NT CEO Darrell Jacobs praised the graduates and award winners, noting the importance of trade skills and continuous learning to keep pace with industry changes.
“The rapid growth of EVs and hybrids, which now make up nearly a quarter of new car sales, shows the need for skilled apprentices. By equipping apprentices like Eli to work with the latest technology, skills and knowledge, we prepare them to become leaders in the industry,” he said.
Minister for Education, Training, and Skills, Blair Boyer joined the ceremony to award graduate certificates. He emphasised the importance of vocational education as pathways to rewarding and in demand careers, saying: “The work that the MTA does and the jobs that are available in automotive are a fantastic example for young people.”
Recently, MTA Training and Employment became the first in Australia to offer dual trade automotive apprenticeships in both light vehicle and automotive electrical, as well as heavy vehicle and automotive electrical.
“Our focus is on preparing today’s apprentices for the future. The dual trade apprenticeships double an apprentice’s career prospects and complements our position as leaders in electric vehicle training,” Mr Jacobs said.
