The Automotive Training Board NSW (ATB NSW) is the peak industry voice advising government and working with training providers on workforce and skills needs across automotive, transport, logistics, aviation, rail and maritime. 

For the automotive industry, ATB NSW provides advice on training and workforce priorities in New South Wales and supports the effective development and delivery of nationally recognised training.

In our latest member profile, ATB NSW's Executive Officer, Debbie Joyce, shares why they joined AUSMASA, the value of industry-led training and why continuing to build the capability of Australia's automotive workforce matters.

Tell us about your organisation. How do you support automotive skills? 

Automotive Training Board NSW (ATB NSW) is an independent body for the industry areas of automotive, transport and logistics, aviation, rail and maritime.

ATB NSW represents its industries around training to support vocational education and training and workforce development in NSW.

It shares streamlined, unique and timely advice to the Department of Education, including its vocational education and training division and Industry Workforce Programs.

As an Industry Training Advisory Body, ATB NSW also shares information with other state, territory and Commonwealth stakeholders about industry training and skills needs in New South Wales.

ATB NSW identifies industry skill needs, priorities and funded training skill development issues; promotes training to industry; provides brokerage services; advises on apprenticeships and traineeships; and advises on developing, reviewing and implementing training packages.

The automotive industry is at a critical point of change in terms of technology. With it being imperative that the workforce can engage with those practices, it is vital to have a voice for industry to ensure a future of opportunities and career paths.

Why did you become an AUSMASA member?

I have had the privilege of representing NSW across the various iterations of training package development for the last 20 years. I have seen firsthand the many opportunities that great training can bring to industry, and it is an honour to be able to add the ATB NSW’s voice to this critical function for industry’s future.

By being a part of the process, gives NSW industry a say about the direction of training for the future, and encourages people to understand the many things that a career in automotive can bring.

How do you think AUSMASA membership has enabled you to influence national skills and workforce development?

Membership of AUSMASA means that the ATB NSW can look to industry priorities as they emerge and ensure that its influence can be used to allow for these changes to have their place within the training system. At the end of the day, it’s great training that ensures an industry that will continue to evolve and be at the forefront of growth to support our economy.

Our workforce is one that we should be justifiably proud of, and it’s imperative that we keep on building our strengths for its future and to support the many people who make up this dynamic and ever evolving industry.