A new Queensland school-based career pathway has been established to overcome a skills shortage in the automotive industry.
State Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Minister Ros Bates said a partnership with Motor Trades Association (MTA) Queensland would deliver a new Automotive Gateway to Industry Schools Program (GISP).
Minister Bates said the program, which would start in schools from early 2026, would bring industry into the classroom and equip students with the skills needed for tomorrow’s automotive technologies.
She said the Automotive Gateway would give students hands-on access to real-world training and career pathways in trades and emerging technologies like electric and autonomous vehicles.
“It joins a range of industry-led initiatives under the Gateway to Industry Schools Program, designed to help students explore career pathways across key sectors including aerospace, health, and agribusiness.”
MTA Queensland CEO Rod Camm said the automotive industry was at a critical turning point.
“Skills shortages are placing real pressure on businesses across Queensland, and without action, this will only intensify as technology and customer demand evolve,” said Mr Camm.
“The Automotive GISP is an exciting opportunity to inspire the next generation and show that automotive is a modern, innovative, high-tech career choice,” he said.
“From traditional trades to emerging fields like electric and autonomous vehicles, the industry offers a wide range of pathways for young people.”
