How Apprenticeships and Upskilling Can Fix the Gap (The Top 5 Reasons)

Closing the Gap: Why Apprenticeships and Upskilling Are the Way Forward

The UK’s automotive industry is facing one of its biggest challenges yet. According to the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), there’s a shortfall of nearly 20,000 qualified vehicle technicians every year, and that gap is widening. The Road Haulage Association (RHA) also reports continued shortages of HGV mechanics, with many approaching retirement age. 

At the same time, the pace of change in vehicle technology is accelerating. Electric, hybrid and ADAS systems are transforming workshops, and businesses are under growing pressure to find or train technicians with the right skills. 

So, how can the industry move forward? Apprenticeships and targeted upskilling are proving to be the most effective way to rebuild and future-proof the workforce. 

Here are the top five reasons why they work. 

1. Building a Future-Ready Workforce 

Apprenticeships in automotive help businesses grow their own technicians from the ground up. Learners gain hands-on experience in real workshops while developing technical and diagnostic skills that meet today’s standards. 

We’ve seen this in action with our work at Royal Mail. As a global employer with over 150,000 UK staff, they faced challenges in attracting skilled candidates and keeping up with new vehicle technologies. Together, we developed apprenticeship pathways in Light and Heavy Vehicle Maintenance, Paint and Panel, and EV Level 3 training. 

Since the partnership began, Royal Mail has received over 2,000 applications, filled 100% of its roles in 2024, and recruited more than 160 apprentices since 2023, all while maintaining a high level of technical quality through programmes delivered at our academies in Derby and Motherwell. 

2. Reducing Recruitment Costs

Recruiting fully qualified technicians can be expensive and time-consuming.

Apprenticeships provide a long-term, sustainable alternative. By training new talent internally, employers can reduce reliance on external recruitment and agency fees while building loyalty from day one. 

3. Retaining Experience Through Structured Learning

Upskilling is not only for new starters. Many experienced technicians are keen to stay current with technology, and structured learning programmes help keep their skills sharp.

Providing pathways like HGV training or specialist EV upskilling can boost morale, engagement, and retention - all while protecting valuable experience. 

4. Improving Productivity and Service Quality

Technicians who learn through apprenticeships or tailored upskill programmes develop stronger problem-solving and diagnostic skills. They can identify faults more efficiently, complete repairs faster, and work more confidently.

That translates directly into better productivity, customer satisfaction, and service quality across your operation. 

5. Keeping Pace with Technology

From EV and hybrid systems to ADAS and advanced diagnostics, technology in the automotive sector is evolving faster than ever. Apprenticeships and short upskill courses give technicians the knowledge to keep pace. 

We help employers integrate this into their workforce strategy through flexible training options like EV Level 3, FGAS, ADAS, IRTEC (HGV), and our Light-to-Heavy Upskill programme. These modules ensure teams are not just meeting current standards but are ready for the next phase of vehicle innovation. 

Build Your Future Workforce Today 

The technician shortage is not a short-term problem, but the solution is already within reach. By investing in apprenticeships and upskilling, employers can strengthen their teams, attract new talent, and prepare for the technology shaping the future of transport. 

We’re helping businesses across the UK build the next generation of skilled technicians, from early learners to experienced specialists.