An industry first 4WD training program pilot is now officially underway, creating a career development path for a new generation of upskilled technicians in the booming 4WD aftermarket sector.
On Thursday 17th June, students attended Kangan Institute’s Docklands campus, to begin a new chapter in their career. The students become the first wave of technicians to take part in the country’s first 4WD specific program, the ‘4WD Accessories Technician Course’.
The Australian 4WD Industry is a $6 billion industry comprising more than 2,000 businesses and employing over 70,000 Australians, and the sector desperately needs an ongoing supply of the right skills to keep growing and meet consumer demand.
The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA)’s 4WD Industry Council (4WDIC) committed itself to developing a nationally recognised qualification. To bring the concept to reality, the 4WDIC enlisted the services of leading vocational education and training provider, Kangan Institute. The result is a pilot program developed to provide the specific skills and knowledge technicians need to effectively work and succeed in a 4WD accessories business.
Under the watchful eye of Kangan Institute training specialists, the students will study a range of mechanical units, accessory fitting and electrical units, and upon successful completion, leave with a Certificate 2 in Automotive Service Technology. The Certificate, and specialised new skills will aid employment and career progression opportunities for the students who have completed the course.
Kangan Institute has been instrumental in guiding the 4WD Industry Council through the process of developing a program that would meet the immediate needs of the industry, with the flexibility to adapt and grow as the sector moves forward. The AAAA would like to acknowledge and thank Gavin Cribb and Ian Said from Kangan Institute for their tireless work and expertise. The AAAA also wishes to thank 4WD Industry Council Chairman Ben Lavis, Convenor Nigel Bishop, and the entire 4WD Industry Council for their vision and support of the 4WD industry.
The AAAA looks forward to the new 4WD Accessories Technician Course playing a role in bolstering technician skills and inspiring the next generation to build a career in the Australian 4WD aftermarket industry.
For more information on the course, including an overview on the course content, please visit https://www.4wdcouncil.com.au/resources/4wd-accessories-technician-certificate/
