At GiPA we interviewed 450 British workshops, among independent and part of a network, about their team structure and apprenticeship candidates.
Bad experiences, lack of time and candidates shortage are the main reasons why 68% of the workshops interviewed do not have apprentices on board.

The shortage of skills in the British motor trade might be caused by the lack of new people in the team?

The good news is that 84% of those workshops working with apprender offers them a job on a second stage of their professional experience.

Many organisations are engaged in hiring apprenticeship to shape the future of their structure. Why then starting an apprenticeship programme at your company could be a great choice?

• Skill Development: Apprenticeships provide an opportunity to train individuals in the specific skills and techniques needed for the automotive industry. This ensures that the workshop has a skilled and knowledgeable workforce capable of performing a wide range of tasks.

• Customized Training: Apprenticeship programs can be tailored to the needs of the workshop. This means that apprentices can be trained in the exact procedures and practices that are relevant to the workshop’s services, ensuring they meet the workshop’s specific requirements.

• Cost-Effectiveness: Hiring apprentices often comes with lower labor costs compared to hiring experienced technicians. While apprentices may require initial training and supervision, their wages are usually lower, making them a cost-effective option for workshops and a fully prepared expert technician for your workshop.

• Long-Term Investment: By training apprentices, workshops are essentially investing in their future workforce. As apprentices gain experience and become proficient, they can transition into skilled technicians who are familiar with the workshop’s operations, culture, and standards.

• Continuity: As skilled technicians age and potentially retire, having a pipeline of trained apprentices ensures a smooth transition in the workforce. This prevents a skills gap from forming and helps maintain consistent service quality.

• Adaptability: Apprenticeships can bring in fresh perspectives and new ideas. Young apprentices are often more attuned to the latest technologies and trends in the automotive industry, helping workshops stay current and competitive.

• Company Culture: Hiring and training apprentices allows workshops to instill their desired company values, work ethics, and practices from the ground up. This contributes to a positive and cohesive company culture.

• Networking Opportunities and Government incentives: Many apprenticeship programs involve partnerships with educational institutions and industry associations. This provides workshops with networking opportunities, exposure, and access to a pool of potential apprentices. Also, Some regions offer financial incentives, tax breaks, or grants to businesses that hire apprentices. This can further reduce the costs associated with training and hiring apprentices.