Spring Statement: Call to tackle skills shortage in automotive

Automotive vacancies are at their highest level for 20 years – at more than 23,000 – accounting for approximately 4% of the workforce, new research suggests.

Analysis from the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) also showed that motor trades had the sixth highest vacancy rate of all industry sectors.

Ahead of today’s Spring Statement, Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI, says that there is an urgent need for improved funding for skills training.

“There’s no question the Chancellor has a number of pressing issues it’s hoped he will address in the Spring statement,” said Nash. “But the IMI’s latest analysis of vacancies in the automotive sector highlights just how critical the skills situation is. 

“We have been calling for the Government to inject funding specifically into training to work on electric vehicles; but frankly right now businesses need help to bring on talent right across all areas of skills.” 

Nash argues that more needs to be done to help employers upskill their workforce. He explained: “Retraining those currently out of work also needs to be addressed as a matter of priority.

“The massive advances in technology in automotive offer a wealth of opportunity; it’s critical therefore that the training is available for individuals who want to be part of what is an incredibly exciting sector.”

The IMI is the professional body for individuals working in the motor industry.