The South African automotive industry, a cornerstone of our economy, is shifting gears to meet the demands of technological shifts and sustainability demands. To meet the ambitious goals set by the South African Automotive Industry Agreement and Automotive Masterplan 2035, the industry must prioritise skills development and workforce transformation.
Upskilling for a Changing Landscape
The automotive sector in South Africa is grappling with several challenges, including rapid technological advancements, the need for global competitiveness, evolving compliance requirements, and the imperative for workforce transformation. Addressing these issues requires a coordinated effort between education providers, industry players, and the government.
- Technological advancements: The industry is experiencing a rapid shift towards electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and smart manufacturing, requiring new skill sets.
- Global competitiveness: To remain relevant in the international market, South African automotive companies must enhance workforce capabilities.
- Compliance requirements: The Industry Agreement mandates a progression from industry skillset level 4 to skillset level 5.
- Transformation goals: There’s a pressing need to address historical inequalities and create a more diverse, skilled workforce.
A Driving Force in Automotive Skills Development
The Production Management Institute of Southern Africa (PMI) is uniquely positioned to support the industry’s skills needs. With over 20 years of experience in manufacturing operations, quality, and logistics management, PMI offers a range of qualifications and flexible learning pathways tailored for the automotive sector. PMI’s programmes, developed in collaboration with industry experts, provide practical, applicable knowledge to upskill, reskill, and future-skill the workforce. From entry-level Occupational Certificates to an Honours degree in Operations and Quality Management, PMI’s learning pathways enable career progression and adaptability to industry changes. PMI offers:
- Tailored Qualifications: Qualifications specifically designed for the automotive industry including a range of occupational certificates being registered with the QCTO (Quality Council for Trades & Occupations).
- Flexible Learning Pathways: Articulation from NQF Level 1 to 8, allowing for career progression.
- Industry-Relevant Curriculum: PMI ensures that its courses and qualifications impart practical skills.
- Multi-modal Delivery: PMI’s flexible learning methodologies cater to personal learning preferences and operational requirements.
Driving Transformation and Competitiveness
PMI’s partnerships with leading automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and suppliers have already demonstrated success in enhancing employee competencies and creating a talent pipeline for the industry. As the South African automotive sector accelerates towards 2035, PMI’s comprehensive approach to skills development will be a crucial driver in the industry’s transformation and global competitiveness. PMI is:
- A BBBEE Level 1 certified institution: PMI helps automotive companies meet their transformation objectives.
- Navigating the Transition to Occupational Certificates: PMI is well positioned to lead this transition, leveraging its industry connections, flexible learning models, and practical focus to develop relevant, accredited programmes.
Accelerating into the Future
As the South African automotive industry gears up to meet the ambitious targets set by the Automotive Masterplan 2035, the need for a skilled, adaptable workforce has never been more critical. PMI stands at the forefront of this transformation, ready to power the industry’s journey with cutting-edge knowledge, practical skills, and innovative learning solutions.
To automotive industry leaders, HR professionals, and aspiring individuals in the sector:
- Assess Your Skills Gap: Contact PMI today for a comprehensive skills audit of your workforce. Our experts will help identify critical areas for development aligned with the Automotive Masterplan 2035 goals.
- Customise Your Learning Journey: Partner with PMI to create tailored learning pathways for your employees. From shop floor to executive suite, we offer programmes that cater to all levels of your organisation.
- Embrace the Future of Learning: Experience PMI’s Digital Campus and blended learning options. Book a demo to see how our flexible learning solutions can upskill your workforce without disrupting operations.
- Invest in Tomorrow’s Leaders: Enrol your high-potential employees in PMI’s advanced programmes like the BCom Honours in Operations and Quality Management. Shape the strategic thinkers who will drive your company’s future.
- Stay Ahead of Industry Trends: Join industry forums where we discuss emerging trends, technologies, and skills needs. Be part of shaping the future of automotive skills development.
- Leverage Funding Opportunities: Let PMI guide you through available skills development funding and tax incentives. Maximise your return on investment in training and development.
- Fast-Track Transformation: Explore PMI’s specialised programmes designed to support historically disadvantaged individuals, aligning with the industry’s transformation goals.
About PMI by Adcorp:
PMI by Adcorp is a leading private higher education institution with a niche offering specialising in operations, quality and logistics management. With a commitment to empowering individuals and organisations, PMI delivers customised programmes designed to enhance productivity and drive success. Partner with us to unlock potential and achieve excellence.
