Why technical and soft skills are critical for automotive success

The All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on the Future of Employability convened a roundtable meeting to discuss the concept of employability and the policies necessary to enhance it across the UK. The IMI highlighted the importance of employability in the automotive industry.

In its statement, the IMI emphasised the need for individuals to possess a unique blend of technical and soft skills to adapt to the evolving needs of the industry. It’s critical component in the sector’s future success and one that the IMI is determined to foster and improve employability in automotive. But what is employability?

Employability refers to an individual's ability to obtain and maintain employment by possessing the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes that are valued by employers. In the context of the automotive industry, employability extends beyond technical proficiency. It requires a combination of technical skills and essential soft skills such as effective communication, problem-solving, and customer service. Success in the automotive sector relies not only on technical expertise but also on the ability to be hired, remain employed, and progress in one's career.

As a professional association and Sector Skills Council member for the automotive industry, the IMI plays a vital role in improving employability. It works closely with employers, training providers, and policymakers to ensure that individuals possess the skills necessary to excel in the sector. By establishing standards, qualifications, and professional development programs, the IMI helps bridge the gap between education and employment, facilitating the seamless integration of individuals into the industry.

Never stop learning

The automotive industry is undergoing rapid technological advancements, such as the rise of electric vehicles and autonomous driving. To stay relevant, employees must possess up-to-date technical knowledge. The IMI supports continuous learning and upskilling by providing accredited training programs and qualifications. These initiatives not only enhance technical proficiency but also enable individuals to adapt to emerging trends and technologies, bolstering their employability in an evolving industry.

But there’s a softer element that shouldn’t be ignored. In addition to technical expertise, you also need to be able to effectively communicate, problem-solve, work in a team, and be comfortable in customer service. Crucial in an industry where customer satisfaction is paramount.

The IMI promotes the development of these critical soft skills through training programmes, apprenticeships, and industry-led initiatives. By emphasising the importance of these skills, the IMI ensures that individuals possess the holistic skillset necessary for success.

Collaborate to win

The IMI actively collaborates with various stakeholders to create the right framework conditions for frequent and seamless retraining and upskilling. Through partnerships with automotive companies, training providers, and educational institutions, the IMI fosters an environment that supports ongoing professional development. By engaging with the public and private sectors, it contributes to the formulation of policies that enhance employability across the automotive sector.

It’s why the IMI’s voice is heard at the highest level. The roundtable meeting organised by the APPG on the Future of Employability aims to generate clear recommendations to the government.

The APPG’s Chair, Siobhan Baillie MP, wants to address the challenges faced by employers in recruiting and retaining staff while ensuring that employees are work-ready. As an advisory board member, the IMI brings valuable insights and expertise to the discussion. It’s a forum where it can highlight its focus on employability in the automotive industry ensuring the sector's specific needs are adequately represented, leading to effective policies that promote sustainable employment.

By emphasising the importance of both technical and soft skills, the IMI ensures that individuals possess the necessary attributes to thrive in the sector. Through collaboration, partnerships, and continuous learning initiatives, the IMI drives forward the agenda of retraining and upskilling, promoting a workforce that can adapt to the evolving needs of the industry.

As the APPG on the Future of Employability seeks to address the challenges faced by employers and employees, the IMI's expertise will help to shape policies that foster a resilient and highly employable automotive workforce.

Hayley Pells is Policy Manager at the Institute of the Motor Industry