During 2024, MTA Queensland (MTAQ) has engaged with schools across the state through its School to Work project, providing students with details on the many careers and pathways into employment available in the automotive industry. One school in particular, Caboolture State High School, has embraced the program and in July 2024, MTA Queensland delivered its first career taster day event, something that it will look to replicate with other schools across the state. This engaging event provided 11 students with a comprehensive introduction to the automotive industry, featuring interactive experiences, practical workshops, and valuable career guidance.
By bringing together industry expertise and educational resources, the taster day offered students a unique opportunity to explore the automotive sector in a hands-on and meaningful way. A major highlight of the day was the electric vehicle (EV) showcase, featuring MTA Queensland’s BYD Atto 3. Students had the chance to interact with this state-of-the-art vehicle, delving into its advanced features and understanding the technology that powers electric transportation. This showcase not only demonstrated the future of automotive technology but also sparked students’ interest in the evolving field of EVs.
The Taster Day also featured an innovative Virtual Reality (VR) experience designed to teach students how to depower an EV. Through VR technology, students were able to engage with complex procedures in a simulated environment, gaining experience in a safe and interactive manner. In September, more experiences were added to this technology – including spray painting, vehicle jump start, and tyre-changing experiences – all designed to provide real-life experiences in a simulated environment to students keen to have a go. This modern approach to learning provides a unique perspective on working in the automotive industry.
In addition to the high-tech experiences, the day included a practical workshop where students engaged in basic vehicle maintenance tasks. They learned essential maintenance skills and received important safety tips on responsible vehicle ownership. This hands-on approach provided students with practical knowledge and skills relevant to the automotive industry. The event also offered valuable insights into various career paths within the automotive sector. Students explored different roles, qualifications, and skills required for success in the industry.
Information on apprenticeships and work experience opportunities were provided, giving students a clear understanding of potential career trajectories and the steps needed to achieve their professional goals. To add a creative twist to the day, students were invited to build and keep a LEGO car. This fun activity not only reinforced their learning about vehicle assembly but also allowed students to engage in a hands-on, enjoyable experience that complemented the more technical aspects of the day. From a Caboolture State High School perspective, the day was highly successful. “The taster trade day with MTAQ was amazing,” said Hollie Lambert, RTO Manager and HOD Teaching and Learning Senior. “MTAQ are dedicated to providing opportunities for young people to enter the trade. They create exciting real-world experiences that had all the participants excited for what a career in the industry could be like.”
Feedback from the students was equally positive, with many commenting that the experience had been fun and entertaining and had given them plenty of useful insights into EVs and cars in general. A career in the automotive industry was a goal for plenty of the students. Overall, MTA Queensland’s Automotive Taster Day at Caboolture State High School was a resounding success. By combining interactive showcases, practical workshops, and career guidance, it provided students with a comprehensive introduction to the automotive industry, inspiring the next generation of automotive professionals and demonstrating the exciting possibilities available to them.
With ongoing initiatives like the Auto Ready program, MTA Queensland is committed to continuing its support for students and fostering their interest in automotive careers. School-to-Work Transitions is part of the Queensland Government’s Good people. Good jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022 – 2032
Source: Motor Trade e-Magazine (December 2024 / January 2025)
9 February 2025