The automotive sector is a vital pillar of the UK economy, directly supporting nearly 200,000 highly skilled jobs in manufacturing and 800,000 jobs across the broader industry. Furthermore, as a world leader in automotive production, UK exports of finished vehicles generate more than £47 billion of revenue a year. However, the sector is currently grappling with the challenge of attracting and retaining talent while adapting to new technologies, with future skill demands evolving rapidly. According to the SMMT, new analysis shows that, with the right conditions in place, the automotive industry could drive £50 billion in green growth over the next decade. But, with the IMI Vacancy Rate Tracker reporting 20,000 job vacancies at the start of 2025; an estimated 107,000 technicians needed by 2030 to support the growing EV market; and a 7% labour shortage in supply chain production roles, a new skills pipeline is essential to realising the sector's potential. How can the Government and the industry work together to bridge this talent gap to secure the future of the UK automotive industry?

This event will:

• Discuss how to create a flexible, skilled and diverse workforce to meet the demands of a rapidly changing industry.
• Consider the need for a combination of new talent pipelines and a drive for reskilling the current workforce to meet the current challenge.
• Examine the UK's ability to attract global talent and maintain the sector's international competitiveness.