The project, developed through the
Automotive Council's Business Environment and Skills Group, brings together major automotive businesses "to ensure future skills needs are met for UK vehicle manufacturers and supply chain companies".
Cable said: "There is a risk that without adequate investment in skills, the industry will run into serious skills bottlenecks. Through our industrial strategy we are working in partnership with the automotive sector as it goes from strength to strength. We are providing businesses with the confidence to invest, and to create high skilled jobs."
Manufacturers will work together to identify and meet the skills needs for their current and future workforces. Young people will also gain first-hand experience of the industry in action in a bid to inspire future generations of engineers and technicians.
Aston Martin, Bentley, BMW, Ford, General Motors, GKN, Honda, Jaguar Land Rover, Nissan and Toyota will work with government, SEMTA and Society for Motor Manufacturers and Traders through the Automotive Council to boost workforce skills, now and for the long term.
This includes creating an industry standard 'jobs framework' and identifying job 'hot spots' to encourage more young people into automotive manufacturing careers and to deliver clear development pathways to help them to progress. Initiatives include:
- Giving 4,500 nine year olds an experience of working in the industry through a one day production simulation.
- Taking on 960 11-16 year old 'industrial cadets' to develop vital industry skills in team working, communications and problem solving over a six-day programme.
- Providing a route to work for 225 19+ year olds, with a 15-day programme offering vocational training and simulated work activities designed by their potential future employers.
