According to Semta, the sector skills council for science, engineering and manufacturing technologies, the automotive industry should be investing in skills to prepare for prosperity once the downturn ends.
Furthermore, Semta suggests that the automotive industry use its share of the £65m compact between it and the government set for reskilling purposes.
Commenting on the significance of the automotive industry support, Business Secretary Lord Mandelson said: "The automotive sector is a vital part of the UK's economy with over 190,000 people employed directly in manufacturing vehicles and components. We need to ensure that our workers have the world class skills to help UK-based companies be globally competitive. As part of the Government's commitment to manufacturing, we are determined to maintain the UK as a location of choice for manufacturers, both large and small."
Semta suggest that Train to Gain, the Government’s flagship training and skills service, could be of vital use to the automotive industry and their suppliers.
Outlining the issue further, Skills Secretary John Denham commented: "In challenging economic conditions, it is more important than ever to ensure every employee develops the skills to make a full contribution to the bottom line. Research shows that firms that don't invest in training are more than twice as likely to fail, whereas those that make the effort to develop a wide and flexible skills base will be well placed to adapt to changing conditions - and respond to future opportunities.
"I want every employer in the automotive industry to be able to access the training they need, when and where they need it, and with a minimum of red tape. That's why this compact will simplify, extend and improve the support we offer through Train to Gain, helping firms fill skills gaps quickly."
In the biz
Meet our Role Models working in the automotive industry.
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Date Published: November 14, 2008
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