Automechanika Birmingham has partnered with the Institute of the Motor Industry to help inspire and support women working in the automotive industry.
The automotive market is in the midst of a skills crisis, and the aftermarket is caught within the wave of increasing vacancies. With the need for new and skilled talent more important than ever, a new documentary has been launched, showcasing the potential of the industry.
Many companies within the sector are calling for individuals from all walks of life, particularly women, to consider a career change into this dynamic and evolving industry, to help close the skills gap.
With this in mind, both Automechanika Birmingham and the IMI are actively working to inform and inspire individuals about these opportunities, a theme raised in Automechanika Birmingham’s ‘Women in Automotive‘ documentary.
Skills are everywhere
There are more than 100,000 job vacancies opening up and significant on-the-job training opportunities, the automotive industry is set to experience more innovation in the next 10 years than it has seen in the last century, says the IMI.
As a response to this, the industry body recently launched its ‘There’s More to Motor’ campaign, which has three main aims: to challenge the misconceptions of the automotive industry, champion the industry and drive recruitment and change, and start plugging vacancies and skills gaps.
This aligns with Automechanika Birmingham‘s latest documentary, featuring females currently working in the sector who discuss their thoughts about what it is like to work in automotive. It provides an inside look at their day-to-day working life, highlighting the benefits to encourage others to join the industry.
Far from the stereotypical image of greasy overalls, dirty work environments and wrenches, today’s automotive careers span cutting-edge technology, customer relations and business management across all divisions and job roles. The sector is rich with opportunities for career progression, supported by robust on-the-job training programmes to help boost skills.
“Whether it is technology, engineering, sales or customer service, the automotive industry offers a fast-paced, purposeful career, contributing to the safety and innovation of the vehicles that keep our roads safe,” said Alex Jones, marketing director at Messe Frankfurt UK, organisers of Automechanika Birmingham.
Growing representation
While historically underrepresented, women are increasingly finding fulfilling careers in the automotive sector. For example, female technicians account for 10% of the workforce, which shows a 125% increase since 2011.
The automotive industry is not only opening its doors wider than ever before but also actively supporting women through mentorship and sponsorship programmes, networking opportunities and flexible working arrangements.
This call to action is not just about filling vacancies and closing the skills gap; it is about transforming the industry. “Our ‘Women in Automotive’ documentary showcases the stories of those females who have successfully transitioned into the automotive sector, highlighting their journey, challenges, and triumphs,” Jones added.
“We want to shine a light on the positive opportunities rather than focusing on the current gender disparity. The future of automotive is inclusive, innovative and incredibly exciting: there is more to motor!
“With more than 100,000 positions available and a commitment to comprehensive training and support, now is the perfect time to consider a career in the automotive industry. Whether you are looking for a fresh start, a new challenge, or a rewarding career that makes a real difference, the automotive sector welcomes you.”
If anyone is considering a career change, they are welcome to attend Automechanika Birmingham in June 2025, where there will be a dedicated ambition and careers area.
For more information on Automechanika Birmingham, follow this link. The event returns to the NEC in Birmingham on 3-5 June 2025.
