Securing the support from leading global coatings company, Axalta, further strengthens the AutoRaise proposition to the UK vehicle repair industry: to help and support repairers to attract and recruit local young people in to an industry apprenticeship.
Axalta join fellow, forward-thinking Gold Partners, who – together with Silver and Bronze category 'advocates' - support the AutoRaise Platinum Partners to back the continued growth of 'the apprentice champions' as a pioneering and sustainable organisation.
"The skills shortage and age profiles are both issues we are all aware of in our Industry, but no-one was willing to tackle," said Mike Davis, Managing Director, Axalta Coating Systems UK. "The AutoRaise team is now addressing these. As the complexity and nature of the repairs undertaken in the industry changes, we will need the support of a new generation. Presenting a career in vehicle body repair to young people via careers officers, careers fairs and other channels is a laudable task and Axalta is pleased to support these initiatives."
Axalta joins a growing list of motor vehicle repair supply chain Partners, that include Audatex, BMS, CAPS Consortium, Car-O-Liner, eca Group, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, esure, Fix Auto UK, Gallagher Bassett, Indasa, Industry Insights, LV=, Morelli Group, R-M Paint, S&G Response, U-Pol, VRVE and 3M.
"We're delighted that Axalta has decided to support the work that AutoRaise is undertaking on behalf of the vehicle repair sector," said Mark Bull, Head of Engagement for Business at AutoRaise. "This is another extremely positive step forward for the AutoRaise charity."
A leading global company focused solely on coatings and providing customers with innovative and sustainable solutions, Axalta are pioneers in technology and productivity. With more than 150 years of experience in the coatings industry, globally, 13,300 Axalta people serve more than 100,000 customers in 130 countries.
AutoRaise has taken great strides in its quest to support the vehicle repair industry since it was launched just over twelve months ago. The charity's aim of helping vehicle repairers to address the current skills shortage has resulted in approximately 100 new apprenticeships being created.
Bob Linwood, AutoRaise CEO commented: "To welcome Axalta on board as Partners is testament to the impact AutoRaise has already made to finally address the dire shortage of future, skilled technicians. We open our arms to Axalta, who through this partnership have demonstrated that they share our values and by working closely together we can support UK vehicle repairers to secure apprentices and future proof their businesses.
"We look forward to working closely with Axalta along with our other Partners and industry stakeholders as we strive to bridge the current skills crisis," said Bob.
Mark Bull concluded, "Any company associated with the safe repair of accident damaged vehicles has a vested interest in creating an environment whereby young people are attracted to our sector. The work that AutoRaise is undertaking involves promoting what the vehicle repair industry has to offer directly into schools, and we encourage young people to join a Cadet programme from the age of 13; this is a vital part of the AutoRaise work as it will create a pipeline of young people choosing a career path within the automotive sector."
It's essential that the industry gets behind addressing the skills shortage, whether it be taking on new apprentices, hosting Industry Showcase Events or simply helping to spread the word.