In the auto body repair world, there’s a big challenge on management’s mind—a shortage of skilled technicians. According to the TechForce Foundation, the industry will need 80,000 more technicians by 2024. Auto body shops are asking a crucial question: How do we find and hire skilled workers? Let’s explore the challenges and smart solutions that are shaping the industry
The Growing Need
As cars become more advanced and intricate, the demand for skilled auto body technicians is skyrocketing. Newer vehicles have become sophisticated machines requiring specialized skills such as ADAS calibrations, for repair and maintenance. The industry’s need for talent is pressing, and the shortage is felt across the board. Here are some of the top challenges faced by collision repair centers and auto body shops today:
- Shortage of Skilled Technicians:
– The shortage is real, and shops are feeling the impact. The industry’s rapid evolution has outpaced the growth of a skilled workforce.
- Aging Workforce:
– Many seasoned technicians are approaching retirement, leaving a significant skills gap that’s challenging to fill.
- Technology Advancements:
- The influx of advanced automotive technologies requires a new breed of technicians with updated skill sets.
What are some of the strategies that you can take today to mitigate future attrition?
- Growing Your Own: Auto body shops are increasingly adopting a ‘grow your own’ strategy. Investing in apprenticeship programs and internal training initiatives helps cultivate a skilled workforce from within.
- Websites for Job Posting: In the digital age, online platforms play a pivotal role. Auto body shops are leveraging specialized job posting websites to cast a wider net and connect with prospective technicians actively seeking opportunities. Sites like https://www.factoryfix.com/, https://www.automarketco.com/ and https://www.indeed.com are popular destinations for young professionals to apply to jobs.
- Trade Schools: Recognizing the importance of education, auto body shops are establishing partnerships with trade schools. These collaborations help bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring a pipeline of skilled technicians. Local trade schools such as UEI on the West Coast offers courses for a variety of roles to prepare students for entry level employment such as:
- Dealer Auto Service Technician
- Independent Shop Auto Technician
- Service Writer
- Retail Parts Associate
- Parts Specialist
- Performance Engine and Suspension Tuning
- Alternative Fuels Technician
- Preventive Maintenance Technician
Addressing the Retention Challenge:
Recruitment is only half the battle. Retaining skilled technicians is equally crucial. Auto body shops are adopting employee-centric strategies, offering competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and creating a positive work environment to retain their valuable talent.
In 2024, the race to secure skilled auto body technicians intensifies. From ‘growing your own’ to embracing digital recruitment platforms and collaborating with trade schools, auto body shops are innovating to address the staffing challenges head-on. The road ahead may be challenging, but with strategic planning and industry-wide collaboration, the auto body repair sector can navigate the path to a robust and skilled workforce. If you wish to learn more about how to staff your shop, ROME, the software leader in collision management, offers employee retention best practices consulting to auto body shop owners. Visit https://www.rometech.com/collision-center-consulting/ to learn more.