Electrifying opportunities for service techs

There are more trucks on Australian roads than ever before, which means the need for skilled mechanics and service technicians is only increasing.

However, current data indicates that there is a chronic national shortage of automotive and engineering trade workers.

This is due to many reasons, but Australia's automotive and trucking industry is not one to stand idle, and educational bodies along with key industry stakeholders are doing their part to address this from the ground up—starting with apprenticeships at dealerships through to career-defining opportunities further down the line.

For those looking for a job or those already on the tools, this blog has information, study options and suggestions for keeping skills sharp and getting more from a career in this important industry for Australia.

Opportunities for apprentices

For apprentices undertaking study or techs wanting to take things further for the future, there is a recently launched Certificate III in Automotive Electric Vehicle Technology that includes light and heavy Electric Vehicles (EV) in its curriculum.

This is delivered by a range of well-known Registered Training Organisations such as TAFE Queensland and the Canberra Institute of Technology—pointing to the predicted future uptake of electric technology and the number of BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles) on the roads.

Importantly, the course provides networking and potential job opportunities at mechanic workshops around the country.

There are also new incentive payments available from the Federal Government for apprentices and trainees studying courses that include Electric Vehicles.

Apprentices can also check out the Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia’s (HVIA) National Apprentice Challenge, which provides an exciting stage for apprentice heavy vehicle service technicians to test their skills live at the biennial Brisbane Truck Show.

The purpose of the National Apprentice Challenge is to inspire and showcase the knowledge, adaptability and quick thinking of the best heavy vehicle apprentices in the country—with thrilling prizes up for grabs such as hosted trips to the V8 Supercars, new tool kits and more.

In Victoria, the Westar and Patterson Cheney Apprentice Academy are working hard to meet the needs of apprentices through specialised training programs and financial support with a mix of paid work and TAFE training.

As financial hardship during training is a key contributor to the ongoing labour shortage, the apprentice academy kept this in mind in structuring an educational course that supports all students.

Upskilling as a service tech

Experienced service techs shouldn’t be left behind and when it comes to upskilling, there are some exciting options within the heavy vehicle industry.

TAFE Queensland has a range of post-trade courses including fee-free TAFE positions, such as the Battery Electric Vehicle Inspection and Servicing Skill Set that can set up students to be ahead of the learning curve and on top of industry needs.

However, if you’re not located in the Sunshine State, there’s always the option to talk to your foreman or workshop manager to discuss opportunities to connect with out-of-state courses to upgrade your skills.

Skill improvement programs run by OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers), such as the Elite Technician Program and Master Technician Program are designed to improve and enhance the skill levels of senior technicians working within OEM dealerships.

These programs generally run between three to four years with one-on-one training, and in-person intensives. The focus is on key areas such as technical knowledge and ability, customer interaction and the ability to transfer knowledge and mentor service staff. 

These improvement programs are a great pathway for senior technicians to upgrade their skills (and pay packet) by becoming the go-to person in the workshop and someone who can keep the team up to date, on their toes, and supported while on the clock.

Competition keeps skills sharp

Friendly competition can go a long way for internal motivation and the drive for achievement, as well as offering networking opportunities beyond the workshop.

Leading OEMs host national competitions to hone the skills of technicians within their network, benefiting staff, customers, and the dealership team overall.

With separate rounds for qualified technicians and apprentices, the competition can include one-on-one personalised coaching, months of in-depth training, and the chance to work with state-of-the-art technology developed by OEMs.

International competitions such as the I-1 Grand Prix are another amazing opportunity for personal improvement—and if you’re lucky enough to work for an OEM that offers this type of competition, it can capstone a career as a diesel mechanic or service technician.

Featuring specialised one-on-one training, the chance to travel internationally and represent your country on the world stage, international competitions like this not only bring out the best of the best, but prove that a career in the industry can be both rewarding and exciting.

Interested in a career with Isuzu? Check out opportunities here or take a look at how James Binnington turned an apprenticeship in a light vehicle workshop into a globe-trotting career and supervisor position with Australia’s favourite truck brand.