Bridging the gap between education and industry, Autotech Academy creates opportunities for newly qualified vehicle technicians to enter the automotive workforce through a paid, 6-12 month internship. Every intern is vetted, interviewed, and equipped with a uniform and toolbox worth £1,000 before being placed with an automotive employer.

Leveraging the support of the Government’s Strategic Development Fund (SDF), to directly address the evolving skills needs of employers in Liverpool City Region’s green sector, Hugh Baird College successfully established electric vehicle courses and strengthened its EV learning infrastructure to ensure the highest quality training for automotive students.

At the end of the Autotech Academy internship, the employer can employ the intern free of charge, or not. This solution not only enables automotive businesses to grow their own talent but ensures that all newly qualified talent is retained by the industry.

Alongside sourcing and securing internship opportunities for qualifying Level 3 students, the Autotech Academy team will provide regular career talks and offer advice to automotive students, while highlighting the full breadth of automotive roles and pathways into the sector.

Hugh Baird College Principal and Chief Executive, Rachael Hennigan, says:

“Through our partnership with Autotech Academy, Hugh Baird College is proud to pave the way for the next generation of automotive experts. Our joint efforts ensure that newly qualified technicians are not only ready to meet the industry’s evolving demands, especially in the green sector, but also have a direct route into fulfilling careers.”

“Together, we are bridging the gap between education and industry, fostering talent that is both highly skilled and future-ready.”