Dealerships are being urged to pledge work experience placements before the year’s end to ensure that Automotive Work Experience (AWE) can offer a robust programme ready for launch in January.

The inaugural AWE, held in April, successfully highlighted the pressing skills shortage within the automotive industry, which faces a deficit of nearly 18,000 skilled workers.

Spearheaded by the School of Thought Automotive, the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) and Autotech Academy, the initiative has transitioned into a year-round programme aimed at fostering long-term solutions.

AWE underscores the importance of hands-on work experience in addressing the industry’s skills gap and aligning with Gatsby Benchmark 6, which mandates every student have workplace experience by ages 16 and 18.

Since launching a dedicated portal during the event, nearly 200 work experience placements have already been pledged for young people in 2025.

Businesses have the flexibility to offer placements that align with their operations, ranging from a single day to weekly engagements.

Dave Reece, founder of School of Thought Automotive, highlighted the dual benefits of work experience: “Addressing the skills gap is not just about filling current vacancies. It’s about investing in the future and showcasing the diverse career opportunities within the automotive industry.”

The initiative aims to connect young people with careers in the automotive sector, spanning technical, mechanical, and managerial roles. Participating businesses have praised the ease of the registration process and the opportunity to engage with emerging talent.

“Work experience need not conform to traditional standards,” said Reece. “Whether it’s a day, a week, or a few hours a week, what matters is creating meaningful engagements that inspire young people and energise the industry.”

For more information or to pledge a placement, visit School of Thought Automotive.

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