The MIRA Technology Institute is opening its doors to welcome businesses from the automotive sector who are interested in finding out more about how apprentices could strengthen their workforce as part of National Apprenticeship Week (7 – 11 February 2022).
Employers can drop into the MTI Campus in Nuneaton between 12pm and 5pm on Thursday, 10 February and enjoy an informal tour of the workshops and state-of-the art learning facilities. The event is part of the 15th annual National Apprenticeships Week, based on a theme of ‘Build the Future’, which is a week-long celebration that showcases the value that apprentices bring to workforce development.
Lisa Bingley, Director of Operations at the MTI said, “The automotive sector is experiencing disruptive change on many fronts in a period of renewed optimism following the challenges of the pandemic. The pace of the electrification revolution has seen demand surge with EVs now accounting for more than a quarter of all new vehicle production according to the SMMT. Battery production has increased over 70 per cent, and the promise of significant investment in the sector is highly encouraging.
“At the MTI, we want to help businesses to put themselves in the best possible position to take advantage of forecast growth and higher demand. The apprenticeships we offer have been developed in partnership with industry specialists who are very close to emerging technologies. In addition, we can help employers to access to bonuses of up to £3,000 for employing a trainee or apprentice. We also offer a matching service for employers looking to strengthen their workforce and can help to upskill existing staff through the Apprenticeship Levy or Levy Transfer Scheme. With our help, employers can gain access to proven candidates who have already successfully achieved qualifications or completed traineeships.”
The MTI is helping to create specialist skills in some of the new emerging technology areas including electrification and driverless cars. Since it first opened its doors, the MTI has welcomed over 32,000 students and delegates. This includes over 1,100 studying for accredited qualifications from a Level 1 Institute of the Motor Industry certificate up to Masters’ degrees, and over 700 following apprenticeships at all levels. More than 10,000 automotive professionals have taken part in professional development activities.
Marion Plant, OBE FCGI, Chair of the MTI Operations Board, and Principal and Chief Executive North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College said, “By 2030, the UK government aims to see an end to sales of petrol and diesel vehicles, achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050 as part of the Green Industrial Revolution plan. This is a stretching ambition within eight years and will require all aspects of the industry to take a fresh look at the way it operates.
“With an ageing workforce and high vacancy levels, it has never been more important to focus on offering meaningful careers with sound prospects and a commitment to investing in training. We’re delighted to welcome automotive sector businesses to our fabulous MTI Campus as part of this high-profile week and look forward to seeing how we can help.”
