Project status
Stage 1 has commenced and is due for completion in April 2027
Key stages of the work
Stage 1: Research and stakeholder consultation
Stage 1 will adopt a mixed-methods research approach that combines quantitative data analysis, a review of existing evidence, and targeted stakeholder consultation to develop a comprehensive understanding of the current automotive workforce landscape, training pathways, and opportunities to strengthen career progression within Automotive Career Pathways.
Targeted stakeholder consultation will be undertaken through surveys, interviews, and site visits with key stakeholders across the automotive sector, including current automotive students, apprentices, trainees, training providers, Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), employers, industry representatives, trainers, assessors, and automotive professionals.
These consultations will provide valuable insights on the following:
- Current pathways into the automotive industry, including entry points, recruitment approaches, and factors that influence individuals choosing automotive careers.
- Opportunities for individuals to transition into, and within automotive roles, including pathways into related industries requiring transferable skills and experience.
- Opportunities for individuals to transition into, within, and out of automotive roles, including pathways into related industries requiring transferable skills and experience.
- Skills, qualifications, experience, and capabilities required to support mobility across different automotive occupations and career stages.
- Barriers and enablers affecting career progression, retention, and workforce participation within the automotive industry.
- The effectiveness of existing career pathways, support mechanisms, industry partnerships, and workforce development initiatives.
- Future workforce needs, emerging technologies, and changing industry requirements that may influence automotive career opportunities.
Stage 2: Co-design and development
Stage 2 of the project will use the research findings and recommendations developed in Stage 1 to co-design and develop an Automotive Career Pathway framework that supports individuals to enter, progress within, and transition across the automotive sector.
The co-design process will focus on the following:
- Map existing automotive career pathways, including entry-level roles, apprenticeship and trainee pathways, skilled occupations, specialist roles, leadership opportunities, and related career transitions.
- Engage with industry, employers, training providers, workers, and other stakeholders to validate pathway information and ensure the map reflects real-world career journeys and workforce requirements.
- Develop case studies highlighting successful career journeys, industry pathways, and approaches that support individuals to enter, remain, and advance within automotive roles.
Implementation and Promotion
- Develop an interactive visual career pathway map that provides users with clear information on available career options, progression opportunities, and potential transition points.