Autotech Recruit has partnered with Our Virtual Academy to bring an online training portal for its temporary vehicle technicians and MOT testers.

The aim of the initiative is to ensure that its 600 contractors will be able to increase their skill set, enabling them to work across a broader range of vehicles, including electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid cars.

The partnership could help the company to meet the UK’s recruitment needs for independent garages, workshops and automotive aftermarket companies.

Mandla Ndhlovu, head of Autotech Recruit’s apprentice and training divisions, said: “Every contractor who joins Autotech Recruit is taken through a robust screening process, but as vehicle technology and systems are evolving at such a rapid pace, the use of ‘Our Virtual Academy’ will enable us to thoroughly review skills.

“It will also increase the employability and pay prospects of our contractors.”


The technicians will gain access to over 130 online training courses, which will allow them to develop and further their skills on automotive systems.

A skills analysis test will enable the company to match its technicians and MOT testers to the right training area.

Mandla added: “We are committed to offering high quality training to the automotive industry in a bid to close the skills gap.”

Our Virtual Academy was launched in 2016 by Ben Stockton. Its partnership with Autotech Recruit is an exclusive one.

Stockton said: “Through our strong industry ties, our team of professional writers are continuously updating the training content.

“There are synergies between our company and Autotech Recruit, as both companies recognise the need to up-skill the current automotive workforce as vehicle systems continue to rapidly progress.”

The agreement follows its recent expansion into Northern Ireland.

The move came following an increased demand from garages for temporary vehicle technicians and MOT testers to fill positions as a result of the ongoing "staff shortages".

The company already operates what it believes to be the industry’s “largest network of temporary vehicle technicians and MOT testers”, and the recent expansion to its location and training facilities, has allowed for potential growth across the board