Trailblazer scheme to combat skills shortage

Older readers will remember a time when unemployment was a big problem in the UK. Recessions in the 1970s, 80s and 90s all saw big rises in joblessness, with people desperate for work. Now, though, the problem is the exact opposite. Fuelled by various causes – Covid, Brexit, increasing long-term illness and early retirement – the economy is being held back by a staff shortage.

And the bike trade is not immune. Of course, the general situation is further complicated by a dearth of young enthusiasts entering the biking world and the resultant ageing profile of motorcyclists. Spend some time speaking to bike dealers; the conversation will often turn to recruitment issues. Good salespeople, spares specialists, marketing, and even admin help are hard to find at the moment. But it’s trained technicians that seem to be most scarce.

“We’re always looking for technicians,” said Dave Willis of Orwell Motorcycles. “Our area has a little group of dealers, and we’re all saying how difficult it’s been to appoint people. In the workshop, there’s always a shortage.” also set an objective of attracting more people to come and work in the motorcycle, scooter and urban mobility trade.

According to the MCIA, “The industry has suffered a shortage of qualified technicians for many years and has failed to attract enough school leavers into an established apprenticeship schemes. As the sector moves into a new era of electrification alongside existing technologies, ensuring enough people progress through the apprenticeship route will be key to our success.”

It goes on to outline the wider

Tony Campbell, CEO of the MCIA, said: “By reforming the Trailblazer Group, responsible for developing the occupational standards that make up an apprenticeship and initiating the application process for funding, we are taking concrete steps to address the financial challenges. We are also actively collaborating with manufacturers and retailers to identify the demand for apprenticeships and break down the barriers hindering apprenticeship programme growth. Together, the MCIA and NMDA are creating a pathway for success in the motorcycle industry.” benefits to society from addressing this problem. “The motorcycle industry is a vital contributor to the economy, offering thousands of job opportunities and contributing significantly to the UK manufacturing sector as a whole. Recognising the importance of a skilled workforce and a thriving market, MCIA and the wider group have prioritised this joint endeavour to address the challenges and harness the opportunities that present themselves in the

At its first meeting, the industry group discussed government funding availability, creating demand working with manufacturers and dealers, and establishing a network of colleges and training providers. And the group declared it will unite industry stakeholders, set out a clear vision, and capitalise on the untapped potential in the industry.

Symon Cook, head of member services and operations at the NMDA, added, “We are dedicated to nurturing a skilled and passionate workforce within the motorcycle industry. The formation of a well-thoughtout action plan in partnership with manufacturers and retailers will promote the benefits of apprenticeships to colleges and training providers, facilitating increased participation. Through these collective efforts, we aim to enhance the accessibility and attractiveness of apprenticeship programmes, fuelling growth and prosperity in the industry.”

Next Month

WE FOLLOW UP ON THE training problem by examining how one dealer – P&H Motorcycles in Crawley – has set up its own programme to develop new staff.