Apprenticeship provider Total People, which specialises in vocational education and training, has announced a new partnership with Go North West to tackle a growing skills gap in automotive engineering by providing local apprenticeship programmes.
Through this strategic partnership, apprenticeships will be designed to equip the next generation of engineers with hands-on, industry-relevant experience in automotive technology, repairs and maintenance processes, working on industry-standard vehicles. With the automotive sector undergoing rapid changes driven by innovations in electric and autonomous vehicles, the partnership seeks to prepare a skilled workforce ready to meet these new challenges.
Manchester Mercedes-Benz agent eStar has also supported the partnership by providing engineering resources. Mel Nicholson, Managing Director at Total People, said: “The automotive industry in the region is currently facing a significant shortage of skilled workers. This partnership addresses that gap, training and upskilling the next generation of automotive engineers, to keep the region’s buses on the road and to meet the demand for more skilled workers.
“Our collaboration exemplifies our approach at Total People – one where industry and training providers work hand-in-hand to ensure that learners are prepared for real-world challenges. By giving apprentices access to cutting-edge technologies and expert mentorship, we are ensuring they graduate ready to make an immediate impact.”
Engineering Director at Go North West Martyn Walsh added: “Our partnership with Total People reflects our commitment to building a highly-skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of an evolving transport industry.
We’re proud to support this mission by donating a bus to create a unique learning environment where apprentices can gain practical experience on the very vehicles they’ll work on. Together, we’re paving the way for a new generation of skilled engineers who will play a key role in the Bee Network’s success.”
