RAISING THE PROFILE OF CAREER OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY
2011-05-10

THE UK is the fourth largest automotive producer in Europe, building one million cars and twice as many engines in 2009 alone according to the latest figures from the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills.

To ensure this industry continues to grow, automotives companies throughout the UK are constantly striving to recruit young people to join a wide range of training and employment opportunities which are available.

The Enterprise Education Foundation (EEF), in partnership with Rockingham, is staging two events at the Northamptonshire circuit to promote the enormous potential the industry has to offer and more importantly the vacancies it needs to fill.

A conference to raise awareness of the automotive industry will be held at Rockingham on Thursday, July 7, for all those who work with and advise young people on the large range of careers available.

Speakers representing all sections of the automotive industry including manufacturing, sales, transport and logistics to quick service workshops, will address the delegates, while there will also be stands providing information on employment and training programmes.

Director of EEF, Graham Lloyd, said: “The event will be a fantastic opportunity for delegates to hear first-hand from people who are passionate about this vibrant and exciting industry.

“We would like to hear from teachers, career advisors, youth workers and training providers who would like to attend as a delegate as well as employers, colleges and other training providers who would like to promote their programmes and course opportunities.”

Delegates will also have the opportunity to test-drive an alternative energy vehicle and follow in the slipstream of some of the UK’s top racing drivers and drive the International Super Sportscar Circuit on the Rockingham simulators.

In addition to the conference, the delegates will also be able to observe the Midlands heat of the Greenpower Schools Challenge, which promotes engineering and technology careers to students aged nine to 25, through projects to design, build and race an electric car.

Chief Executive of Rockingham, Charlotte Orton, added: “At Rockingham we have always believed in playing its part in promoting the automotive industry as a great place to work.
Our concern goes beyond motorsport, and we need to play our part in making sure the important industry which serves it continues to be successful.”

The conference is a not-for-profit event and delegates are asked to make a small contribution towards the running costs. If you would like to attend the conference or require further information please contact Christine Goodwin at chris.goodwin@rockingham.co.uk or call 01536 270030.

The second event, planned for the October 12, will have the same broad aims, but will focus on providing young people with the chance to consider the opportunities available across the automotive industry.
The programme will offer a range of interactive activities, provided by employers, colleges and universities, the Army and other Rockingham and EEF partners. More information will be released nearer the time.