MTAQ has launched a new mentoring program

First- and second-year female automotive apprentices across Queensland will receive the opportunity to access tailored, one-on-one mentoring and support, with the Motor Trades Association of Queensland (MTA Queensland) announcing the launch of the Women in Automotive Apprenticeships Mentoring Program.
The program, which is proudly supported and funded by the Queensland Government through the Women in Trades mentoring Program, will see MTA Queensland partner with BUSY Sisters to deliver targeted mentoring services and resources to female apprentices through a dedicated team of experienced mentors.
With female apprentices still vastly underrepresented throughout the automotive industry, the program aims to support the attraction and retention of more females by helping budding apprentices build confidence, overcome challenges faced in their day-to-day work activities and provide an external outlet they can turn to for questions and guidance.
Additionally, assistance will also be available for businesses, including resources, information, and guides to aid them in fostering a positive workplace culture that promotes inclusivity and diversity and supports female apprentices to thrive.
“MTA Queensland is committed to improving the diversity of our industry’s workforce,” MTA Queensland Chief Executive Officer, Rod Camm, said.
“At a time of ongoing skill and labour shortages, we are working with businesses to look beyond traditional recruiting methods and embrace a diverse workforce, which includes encouraging female representation and the added value that comes with that.
“There are approximately 9,500 automotive apprentices active in Queensland, and only eight percent of those are female.
“There is so much more we need to do as an industry to support inclusive pathways for females coming into the workforce, who regularly face challenges adapting to traditionally male-dominated spaces and experience higher rates of apprenticeship incompletion as a result.
“We are excited to connect with female apprentices across our industry one-on-one and deliver the support they need to thrive.”

To learn more, visit www.mtaq.com.au