The skills shortage is an ever-evolving issue, and research has an important role to play in tackling the problem

The Australian automotive sector is facing a significant skills shortage, with the 27,700 automotive service and repair workshops across the country each short an average of one qualified technician and half an apprentice.
This is not a new issue, and a number of measures have already been put in place, but more needs to be done.
Accurate information is key here, and the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has made a significant investment into research in this area, looking at the experiences of current apprentices (in partnership with the Australian Automotive Dealer Association and Motor Trades Association of Queensland), industry pay rates, and opportunities to re-engage older workers who might be considering leaving the industry.
While more information on each of these studies is available to AAAA members, below are three key insights from each study.

Apprentice research

1. First year apprentices are highly satisfied with their experiences so far, but this declines over time, with many third- and fourth-years considering changing employers, or leaving the industry
2. Being a female apprentice in a male-dominated environment is also still not ideal, with female entrants facing negative stereotypes and pushback within the workshop, and amongst family and friends
3. There are however some compelling examples of how training delivery can incorporate new technologies, while also providing a safe environment in which to learn

Salary benchmarking research

1. Base pay for automotive technicians lags other trades such as carpenters or electricians; with that said, average qualified technicians are paid at a similar level to plumbers
2. There are also significant earning opportunities for more experienced (master) technicians – the challenge is how long it might take to get there
3. Just under two thirds of workshops offer employees non-cash benefits (for example, industry training and events, ‘work-related benefits’ such as parts at cost or access to the workshop, or flexible working arrangements)

Mature age technician research

1. Workshop owners see a range of ways that mature age technicians could potentially support their business; the end goal is typically freeing the owner up to focus on running the business (or letting them take a break)
2. Many mature age technicians are keen to stay connected to the automotive industry, using their technical skills and understanding of workshop operations
3. While there are questions on both sides, they recognise that this could be an effective way of filling a gap, and ensuring years of experience are not lost

Looking to the future, it is important to understand the attraction and retention motivations of current workers in the industry and potential future candidates.
The research undertaken to date provides detailed insights into some elements of this but doesn’t fully capture current sentiment across the broader workforce, or perceptions of the sector among people who might consider a future move into automotive.
Given this, AUSMASA has commissioned Fifth Quadrant to run further research, looking at the perceptions of current and potential automotive industry workers.
The insights from this research will form the basis for AUSMASA’s ongoing industry advocacy and promotion, helping it respond to current and emerging workforce challenges.
The current worker survey is open to anyone working in the Australian automotive industry, including both trade-qualified and non-trade workers. If you are interested, please use the details below to get more information and take part.

Click here to start the survey or go to www.fifthquadrant.com.au/autoskillsresearch

This column was prepared for AAAA Magazine by Fifth Quadrant, the AAAA’s partners in the AAAA Aftermarket Dashboard which is delivered to AAAA members each quarter.

For more information about Fifth Quadrant’s services, visit www.fifthquadrant.com.au or contact Ben Selwyn on ben@fifthquadrant.com.au