Automotive Training Centre to offer Automotive Trades Programme

South Auckland Automotive Training Centre (ATC) has been established as a charitable trust to fill the current gap between the largely theory-based training made available through the tertiary education system, and industry training for those employed in the automotive industry.

Martin van Rooyen, Trustee, says “The purpose of ATC will provide practical training on all automotive trades including: panel beating, spray painting, upholstery, wheel fitment, fuel and exhaust systems, engine tuning and repairs, transmission systems, braking systems, drive trains and axles, suspension and steering, electrics, car grooming, engine performance and welding.

“At the end of the programme trainees will know which area they’re more suited to further develop their training and careers in, and we believe ATC is the first of its kind in Auckland to offer a wide range of skills based training.”

ATC has received strong support from the industry for the initiative, with it being seen as a ideal opportunity for providing realistic pre-entry experiences to the automotive industry, without affecting on-the-job productivity.

The centre will also provide an opportunity for employers to identify and recruit skilled local trainees.

Currently, motor mechanics are on DoL’s immediate skill shortage list and automotive electricians are on the long term list. Other auto trades, such as panel beaters, are not included on these lists, but anecdotally it is difficult to recruit trainees, particularly from within New Zealand.

ATC has also received offers of in-kind sponsorship for the centre from key industry players. With a number of businesses relying on automotive maintenance having indicated that they will support the centre through maintaining some or all of their vehicles at the centre.

However, the Trust is still seeking financial commitments to help meet the set-up costs such as the purchase of specialised equipment and the operating costs of the centre.

Gordon Stewart, also a Trustee, says, “With this initiative being able to help so many of our young people into worthwhile training toward a productive career in the automotive industry, support from the local community, council and businesses will be returned ten fold by helping raise skills, and self esteem of trainees knowing that others in the community are want to them progress their careers, and not end up on our ever increasing dole queue.”

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