As we enter the second half of 2021, I am excited to see MTA Queensland continuing to adapt to respond to trends across the automotive industry.

To start, I would like to commend MTA Group CEO Rod Camm for his fantastic work connecting with our members and driving change from these interactions.

Not only has Rod attended all divisional meetings, but in May, he and several other representatives from the MTA Queensland team travelled to regional Queensland to meet and speak with members.

Joined by Deputy CEO Kellie Dewar and our Workplace Relations team, they spent two days on the road, providing information sessions on ‘How to Avoid Wages Theft’ as well as networking sessions with our members. The aim of this tour was to gain an insight into the priorities and concerns of our members and to establish the level of interest in local MTA Queensland events.

Each discussion yielded a fantastic response, delving into prominent industry issues. We found that members want more face-to-face opportunities, additional services such as business audits on human resources and workplace health and safety, as well access to both in-person and online training. The timing of regional sessions was also identified as critical to their success.

As a result of these findings, MTA Queensland is now in the process of reimagining its role in providing skills to industry. Building on the platform of success through the MTA Institute’s apprenticeship training, MTA Queensland is developing a suite of non-accredited short courses or micro-credentials, that members can access as an optional add-on. These courses will cover a wide variety of topics including technical updates on advanced driver assistance sensor technology, electric and hybrid electric vehicles and scan tools, as well as other business areas including marketing and workplace relations information.

I am extremely excited to see the outcome of this program and am looking forward to more opportunities to hear from members and shape our collective futures.

In addition to meeting with members, MTA Queensland has been involved in a range of events, with the aim of supporting equality in our industry, and ensuring all individuals have a safe work environment.

Last month, we hosted a Women on Tools breakfast in collaboration with the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). We were honoured to be joined by Di Farmer, Minister for Employment and Small Business and Minister for Training and Skills Development, who launched MTA Queensland’s first women-focused pre-vocational program.

Delivered by a qualified female trainer, the women’s automotive pre-vocational course is a five-week program designed to teach women the skills necessary to go on and gain employment and potentially an apprenticeship in the automotive industry. Find more about the course HERE.

MTA Queensland is also a proud supporter of White Ribbon, and recently held an internal fundraising luncheon to spread awareness on the issue of gendered violence. Over $1,000 was raised towards the movement.

Finally,

MTA Queensland’s innovation symposium Carmageddon is set for 22 July 2021. The team has been very busy preparing for the event, where knowledge experts will deliver speeches and participate in panels that discuss innovation, impact, and opportunities for industry.

The exhibition will feature the latest electric cars, retro conversions, vans, bikes, and tech from QUT and industry. Only a limited number of tickets are still available, so get in quick!  Tickets are available HERE.

I look forward to seeing you all there!

Until next time, take care and stay safe.

1 July 2021