AN OLDIE BUT A GOODIE

The need to attract more people into the industry is a constant challenge that demands a huge amount of time, money and effort to tackle. It means making sure that a new generation of talent sees the automotive sector as an industry that fits their goals. It does, but we definitely need to shout about this more.

And while we’re looking to attract new people, we also need to look at other areas, as it’s not just the young who can help automotive succeed. The government is looking at how to get older people into apprenticeships so they have a pathway to a new career.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt is currently considering a shorter type of apprenticeship for the over-50s that will help people retrain and re-enter the workforce. This move is part of the government’s plan to strengthen economic growth and address the issue of out-of-work adults, as well as support the 50% of school leavers who don’t go to university.

Automotive is a diverse sector with roles for everyone, and capturing the imagination of people, no matter what their age, is key to its success. And the apprenticeship scheme is a core component.