More than 830 newly qualified vehicle technicians are actively seeking work across the UK but are unable to find employment.
The figures, released by Autotech Academy, reveal what it described as “a stark disconnect” at the heart of the motor industry.
It said a generation of qualified, work-ready vehicle technicians were struggling to secure their first role, while workshops nationwide remain short-staffed.
In November, the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) estimated there were around 17,000 vacancies across the motor trade.
Autotech Academy said the market was in a pincer movement, under pressure from an ageing workforce and higher than average recruitment pressures.
Nearly one in five technicians is now aged 55 or over, and almost half of the sector is over 45, leaving the industry exposed to a wave of retirements.
“There are hundreds of newly qualified technicians we are in contact with who are ready to work right now,” said Simon King, CEO of Autotech Group.
“They’ve undertaken the training, hold all the relevant theory and are actively looking for roles.
“The shortage isn’t because young people don’t want these jobs, it’s because too many can’t get that crucial first chance.”
Autotech Academy works with colleges across the UK to help newly qualified Level 2 and Level 3 automotive students transition into employment through paid internships. Five years on from its launch, over 500 newly qualified technicians have entered the industry via the programme.
