Future Auto March 2024

14 FUTURE AUTO | TRAINING
Opportunity
knocks for
EV techs
Jodi Ryan, MTA SA/NT
General Manager of Apprenticeships
According to Jodi Ryan, General Manager of
Apprenticeships at the MTA SA/NT, mechanics with the
ability to service both traditional and electric vehicles
can pave the way for a secure financial future. She said
the shortage of qualified technicians in this field has
led to a considerable gap in one of the world’s largest
emerging markets.
“Right now, there is an enormous skills shortage. Job
opportunities would open quickly for technicians with
these skills. However, significant training in electrical
or battery electric technology is needed for current
technicians, and this process will take some time. For
those committing to this path in the long run, it’s the
way forward.”
Training pathway
The pathway begins with the Certificate III in either Light
Vehicle Mechanical Technology (AUR30620), Mobile
Plant Technology (AUR31220), Agricultural Mechanical
Technology (AUR30420) and Heavy Commercial Vehicle
Technology (AUR31130), these qualifications are already
offered by the MTA. Following that, you can advance
to the Qualified Technician to Automotive Electrician
Program, spanning up to 12 months. The final stage is
the Electric Vehicle Technician Program, which might
entail an additional 12 months of training unless you are
already a qualified Automotive Electrical Technician.
The demand for qualifications in automotive electrical
work has surged.
“Our members are now thinking beyond the next 12
months,” stated Jodi. “They’re discussing strategies to
ensure the future success of their businesses.”
Range of courses
This prompted the MTA to establish a pathway for
experienced mechanics to gain additional qualifications
in EVs without having to pause their jobs.
“Members have shared with us that their main gap is
in electrical knowledge,” explained Jodi. “When dealing
with an EV, everything is electrical, and it’s all covered in
orange, which you don’t touch.”
With program adjustments and the upskilling of its
trainers, the MTA has gained recognition as a national
leader in EV training, boasting one of the top EV training
centres in Australia.
“Our new approach for qualified technicians ensures
they don’t have to be away from the workshop for
extended periods, attending classes at trade school.
The program, which acknowledges their existing
qualifications, features self-paced learning, on-the-job
assessment, and training at our Royal Park or Cleve
facilities. For 6-12 months, participants work alongside
certified technicians instead of apprentices.”
Additionally, there are short one- and five-day safety
courses designed for entry-level technicians and
apprentices working on electric vehicles.
“Think about someone working in paint and panel;
their focus may be solely on understanding car safety
measures, such as removing residual current from
electric vehicles. Our members can register for our
five-day EV course, demonstrating to consumers that
they’ve undergone training in electric vehicles and have
the skills to perform repairs.”
Apprentices
The MTA is also developing a pathway for apprentices
who are just beginning their careers in the industry.
“We are working closely with the SA Skills Commission
to develop a dual trade for apprenticeships, for
heavy and light, and combining that with automotive
electrical.”
This approach ensures that apprentices receive training
tailored to current industry requirements while also
preparing them for the anticipated surge in electric
vehicles.
mtasant.com.au | Back to Contents