The Motor Trade Association (MTA) to the South Australian Skills Commission has now been approved to offer dual trade apprenticeships.
The first automotive dual trade in Australia, it combines either a light or heavy vehicle apprenticeship with an automotive electrical apprenticeship.
According to South Australian Minister for Education, Training and Skills, Blair Boyer, “South Australia is leading the way with the first automotive dual trades in Australia. It’s critical that we ensure apprentices entering the workforce are prepared with the skills they need.”
In South Australia, zero and low emission vehicles including hybrids, plug in hybrids
and electric vehicles currently account for more than 20 per cent of all new cars sold, though uptake has been slower in the realm of heavy vehicles.
MTA CEO Darrell Jacobs said, “Our members and customers were not only telling us that this technology was coming. They were telling us it is already here.
“As an industry association, trainer and employer of automotive apprentices, the MTA’s job was to make sure that businesses and apprentices are ready for whatever enters the workshop.”
People and safety manager at dealer group Eagers Automotive, Jenny Seal agreed, “We are thrilled with the announcement of dual trade apprenticeships and the opportunities this will bring to our SA dealer network.”
Paul Ljuldjuraj is a first year light vehicle apprentice. He said, “Working at Adelaide BMW, I get exposed to some of the most high-tech vehicles in the country. I can’t wait to transfer to dual trade.”
South Australian Skills Commissioner Cameron Baker also commented, “The South Australian Skills Commission has worked in partnership with the MTA to formally establish these dual qualifications. It is a great example of how, in partnership with industry, the skills system can develop and respond to specific workforce needs.”