The MTA’s Industry Advisory Council convened at the end of October where members received presentations on the association’s strategic framework as we round out another year and plan for 2023.
CEO Paul Unerkov addressed members at his final IAC meeting before his retirement from the MTA. He explained his recent European study tour and the lessons for industry in their transition to zero and low-emission vehicles. This included the requirement of adequate charging infrastructure, significant government investments in EVs and how we must prepare industry to service and repair the vehicles.
The evidence-based learnings from Europe will assist the MTA to develop appropriate policy responses and prepare members for what the mobility transition might mean for their business. They will also be critical to shaping government responses to electric vehicles. This is why the MTA was pleased to have the Leader of the Opposition David Speirs and the Shadow Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Vincent Tarzia join us for the meeting.
David Speirs outlined his vision for the automotive sector and importantly also heard first-hand the priorities of our members. This included questions on energy and power prices, apprentice training funding and the ongoing role automotive retail, service and repair businesses play in the South Australian economy. Given recent public discussions on vehicle safety, the opportunity for members to informally discuss and meet with the Shadow Minister for Infrastructure and Transport was also welcomed.
As part of our three-year strategic plan, incoming CEO Darrell Jacobs provided an update on the MTA’s new blended model of training, due to start in mid-January. Apprentices will complete their learning across MTA workshops, online modules and at a host employer. As he explained, by mixing institutional learning with workshop and digital assessments, apprentices will develop a broader skill base. This will provide students more practical support, greater flexibility and additional time on the tools as well as assist businesses as they are dealing with acute labour shortages.
Jason Polgreen, General Manager of Apprentice Employment Services, similarly outlined how the Group Training Organisation has doubled down on its efforts to attract the pipeline of skilled technicians of tomorrow. This includes through the new Apprentice Mentoring Program and the MTA’s new School Pathways Coordinator, an initiative of the IAC itself.
Thank you to members of the Industry Advisory Council, as well as the Board, for their contribution to the day. Held at the National Wine Centre, it assisted the MTA to develop policies based on member consultation and strategically plan our upcoming and ongoing priorities.
The MTA is committed to growing and protecting member businesses and the Industry Advisory Council is a successful platform to leverage insights and policy discussions.