A NEW DAWN FOR SKILLS
With a positive start to the year, there seems to be a reawakening for skills as around us we see training facilities adding additional space to adjust to demand. There is also an initiative from the basic education department that is beginning to revitalise skills. Automotive Refinisher was recently contacted to help facilitate a first group of 35 teachers to be exposed to a full day of body and paint repair. Keep an eye out for the follow-up story.
The idea is that over five days, these delegates are exposed to various skill sectors such as welding, spray painting, panel beating etc. They will then be able to share these experiences with their students at school and help guide them in various careers that are not always so academically bias, but are more hands-on learning, and will help other individuals exceed. With a global shortage of skills in our industry, this is surely a step in the right direction.
Our recently graduated Matric form needs to know that they can meet tomorrow’s challenges today by stepping into the skills sector. The rise of AI puts many careers in jeopardy as it looks to replace many facets of the legal, medical, accounting and other job descriptions. These jobs will not look the same five years from now. This is where a hands-on career will shine.
How do you get started? Reputable training centres are a new start for beginners. Take a look at https://autoref.co.za/recommedned-centres/. These are tried and tested facilities with passionate staff and trainers, as well as a good legacy of achieving the best for their students. It is of utmost important – this cannot be stressed enough – to find a reputable training facility. The awful stories we hear time and time again of learners who have paid hard earned money for years, who have been dupped by greedy money grabbing thieves, who leave students unqualified, penniless and a qualification that isn’t worth the paper it’s printed on. If you’re at a training centre that relies solely on theory, they are not legit. Your centre needs to handle theory, practical and be able to qualify you once you’ve gained all your knowledge and skills.
For those already working, it’s not too late for you either. The Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL) is the path for you. This route takes into account the years of experience and will help you obtain your certification. Any reputable training facility is able to join hands with you on this journey.
Changes within the world of vehicle repair are happening thick and fast, and no reprieve is on the horizon. The model variants, lack of repair information from Chinese brands, ADAS and much more, see the global world of collision repair in a state of flux.
Look within at your staff to upskill soft skills. Customer satisfaction is key in this day and age of Google Reviews. Learning to engage well with insurers, suppliers and customers is paramount to success.
By Claire Macfie
