As thousands of Grade 12 learners prepare to write their final examinations and consider what comes next, the South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (SAMBRA) is encouraging young people to look beyond the traditional universityroute when planning their careers.
For young people who enjoy working with their hands, solving problems, working with technology or seeing a tangible result from their efforts, the motor body repair industry offers a range of opportunities – and an industry actively lookingfor new talent.
“University is not the only pathway to a fulfilling and successful career,” says Juan Hanekom, National Director of SAMBRA, a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI). “There is a real need for skilled young peoplein our industry, particularly in areas such as panel beating and spray painting, and those who enter the sector with the right training and attitude can build rewarding careers.”
Modern motor body repair is a far cry from the traditional perception of a panel beater working in a workshop. Collision repair has become increasingly technical, combining practical craftsmanship with vehicle technology, diagnostics, materials,electronics and precision repair techniques.
Panel beaters and spray painters remain critical scarce skills, while opportunities also exist in damage assessment and estimating, workshop management, customer service, administration and other support functions.
For young people who do not pursue university, vocational education and workplace training can provide an important route into these careers. Accredited training providers, including TVET colleges and private training centres, offer opportunitiesto develop the theoretical and practical skills needed by industry, complemented by workplace experience with employers.
“The industry needs a new generation of skilled people,” Hanekom says. “These are careers where you can start by learning a trade, gain experience, continue developing your skills and progress into more specialised or management roles.There is no reason why a young person entering the industry today cannot build a long-term career.”
SAMBRA is also making it easier for people to take that first step.
The association has recently enhanced and automated its Jobs Portal, providing a dedicated platform where job seekers can upload their CVs and SAMBRA members can advertise vacancies. The portal is designed to connect people looking foropportunities with SAMBRA businesses seeking technicians, apprentices and other skilled, administrative and management personnel.
For young people considering their options after matric, Hanekom says the message is simple: “Do not underestimate the value of a trade or practical skill. South Africa needs skilled people, and the motor body repair industry needs youngpeople who are ready to learn, develop and build their future.”
The SAMBRA Jobs Portal is available through the association’s website and provides an accessible starting point for anyone interested in finding work or exploring a career in the motor body repair sector.