At the end of February, TAFE Queensland, in collaboration with the Queensland Trucking Association (QTA), hosted the Driving Tomorrow: Industry Innovation, Workforce Solutions, and the Road Ahead event at the Acacia Ridge campus.
This significant gathering brought together industry leaders, educators, and innovators to discuss the future of the heavy vehicle industry, highlighting challenges, opportunities, and the evolving workforce landscape.
The event kicked off with a dynamic panel discussion addressing pressing challenges in the heavy vehicle industry. Topics spanned the adoption of heavy electric vehicles (EVs), the impact of artificial intelligence (AI), and TAFE Queensland’s innovative training solutions. The panel identified strategies to cultivate a more inclusive workplace culture, attract and retain skilled truck drivers, and develop advanced training programs to meet future workforce demands.
Panellists included key figures from the sector – Gary Mahon from QTA, Camilla Elmes from Industry Skill Australia, Paul Kahlert from All Purpose Transport, Nathan Anderson and Alfons Schoenauer from Volvo Australia, and David Jenkinson from TAFE Queensland. Their insights highlighted the necessity for collaboration and adaptability to navigate the industry’s evolving landscape.
The Australian heavy vehicle industry is a vital component of the nation’s economy, employing over 70,000 professionals across design, manufacturing, servicing, and repair sectors. In 2024, truck sales reached a record-breaking 50,000 units, with projections for 2025 anticipating sales surpassing 550,000 vehicles. The market size is expected to reach $10.5 billion, creating an unprecedented demand for skilled tradespeople.
However, the industry is facing a critical shortage of skilled labour, intensified by an ageing workforce and rapid technological advancements. The shift toward electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles is reshaping the sector and creating new training and workforce development opportunities. TAFE Queensland is at the forefront of this transition, offering 20 heavy vehicle-focused qualifications, including the innovative Certificate III in Automotive Electric Vehicle Technology (Heavy Vehicle) (AUR32721) and Battery Electric Vehicle Inspection and Servicing Skill Set (AURSS00064).
Since 2015, TAFE Queensland has trained over 6400 heavy vehicle apprentices, including 4684 in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology and 898 in Mobile Plant Technology. Recently, the addition of two Hyzon hydrogen-powered heavy vehicles has opened new avenues for sustainable industry practices.
TAFE Queensland’s commitment extends beyond merely training; it collaborates with industry leaders to ensure its programs align with current and future workforce needs. This strategy equips students with essential skills to thrive in a competitive market while aiding employers in addressing critical labour shortages.
The event’s panel discussion emphasised key themes of workforce culture, sustainability, and innovation in the road freight industry. As the workforce becomes more diverse, companies must adapt to changing expectations by fostering inclusive cultures and prioritising ongoing driver training to retain talent. Employers like Volvo Group Australia and All Purpose Transport highlighted the importance of training programs to combat skills shortages and enhance job satisfaction. Additionally, the industry’s transition to electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility and regulatory compliance. Facing future challenges from rising freight demand, the industry needs to effectively scale its workforce through skilled labour and advanced training to ensure long-term success.
TAFE Queensland and QTA’s Driving Tomorrow event was a resounding success, fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration. As the heavy vehicle industry continues to evolve, these events showcase the importance of partnerships between educational institutions and industry leaders.