The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has launched Accelerate, its programme for 16-24 year olds, at an event held at The Manchester College with former TV Apprentice Ruth Badger.
Accelerate is an online community aimed at supporting young people studying for an automotive qualification, it provides valuable information and help to students as they start out in their automotive careers.
Costing just £10 to join, Accelerate membership gives apprentices discounts on tools, career advice, access to competitions and an NUS card, allowing them all the same benefits as other students.
The launch coincided with the publication of an IMI panel survey looking at the skills needs of the sector. The report found 59% of 150 garages surveyed had vacancies and 73% of these were hard to fill, as they require skilled workers. The Accelerate scheme is ideal to encourage young people who have embarked on an apprenticeship who can ultimately help bridge the skills gap.