The critical skills shortage in the automotive sector threatens to derail one of the country’s most important industries.
A dire result of the industry’s failure to impart technical training over the years, combined with the rapid evolution of motor vehicles, means that motor repair outlets and tyre stores are struggling to find suitably qualified staff to carry out the necessary tasks required to keep up with new technologies.
TEPA Training Committee Leader (and owner of a Point S store in KZN), Angie Frederic, discusses the proposed new training plans aimed at addressing this pressing issue.
How critical is the skills shortage in the industry, based on member feedback?
The skills shortage within our industry is so critical that our members are struggling to fill vacancies within their businesses. The need to align skills with the ever-evolving demands of modern vehicles is equally pressing and requires immediate action.
What are some of the more pressing skills shortages being identified in the industry at large?
One of our key areas of focus is minor servicing, with particular emphasis on brakes and suspension maintenance. These are crucial components of vehicle safety, and by upskilling professionals in these areas, we are not only enhancing the competency of the industry but also contributing to safer roads across South Africa.
An increasing number of tyre store owners are now offering minor services on their premises as a way to remain sustainable and augment profits, which means the demand for technical training in minor servicing is likely to grow.
Please provide a list of current training programmes you offer.
The courses we offer include:
- Tyre Repair and Balancing
- Suspension Specialist (including wheel alignment/replacement of suspension parts such as brakes and shocks)
- Basic Servicing Skills
- Salesperson Training
- Retail Manager Training
- Battery Fitter and Tester Training
- New Venture Creation (Entrepreneurship)
We were under the impression that TEPA was already providing training courses on minor servicing.
These training programmes already exist within the merSETA framework, but our mission is to make them more relevant to our industry and up to date with evolving vehicle technology.
Much of the existing training material is outdated and does not reflect current technological demands. Addressing this gap is the first step toward creating a sophisticated industry. Our vision is also to formalize training within our sector and make it easily accessible.
Moreover, the proposed training programmes—under merSETA—will allow individuals to accumulate credits toward higher qualifications.
Jasmeena Shiba, TEPA Chairperson (on the RMI Executive Committee in KZN and Director of Royal Tyres), has indicated a desire to pioneer training courses specific to the tyre sector to run in tandem. What are your thoughts on this?
The success of this initiative will be largely based on industry support, so I applaud Jasmeena for setting the example. Basic skills training programmes lead to increased productivity and the ability to take on more work, which ultimately leads to increased revenue.
Pioneering training courses specific to the retail motoring sector is a great initiative. It will address skill gaps, enhance safety standards, and promote innovation in tyre/motor technology. Offering specialized training can help workers understand the latest advancements, improve maintenance practices, and better manage tyre issues, ultimately benefiting both businesses and consumers.
Additionally, such courses can foster a culture of continuous learning within the industry, ensuring that employees are well-versed in best practices and new regulations. Running these courses alongside existing programmes allows organizations to create a more comprehensive training ecosystem that supports professional development at all levels. Overall, it’s a forward-thinking approach that can contribute significantly to the industry’s growth and sustainability.
How do you see the evolution of these initiatives in terms of venues and timelines?
We have set a five-year timeline for this plan. Since New Venture Creation also needs to be addressed to attract more people into the industry, I see this initiative evolving through campaigns that will bring in new entrants.
Are you planning to offer training nationwide?
Yes, the plan is to reach all our TEPA members.
How can the industry at large become involved in supporting and realizing these proposed initiatives?
The programmes we offer are skills-based, so the industry will need to get involved by providing workplace experience. So far, we have had great support from the industry for this initiative, as it will not only address the critical skills shortage but also provide many unemployed people in South Africa with an opportunity to enter our sector.
We need to banish the perception that investing in training is costly and counterproductive, and that upskilling will result in losing trained staff to the competition. Instead, we are encouraging the notion that creating a sophisticated, professional landscape will benefit everyone in the industry in the long run.
Comment from TEPA National Chair, Johann van de Merwe:
TEPA fully understands and supports the need for training and continuous learning/development at the macro level in the automotive aftermarket industry and recognizes the positive impact that this brings to South Africa as a developing economy.
Developing relevant skills based on the needs and evolution of the modern motor vehicle has become a strategic priority for TEPA. This is essential to further professionalize our membership and to ensure a safer environment for all road users in South Africa.
TEPA will continue to advocate for best practices in the industry with the aim of achieving a more compliant operating environment. We also aim to broaden skills development and open doors of opportunity for future potential participants in the sector.
