May 23, 2025 Pieter Niemand, Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), MJ Mechanical Repairs, Johan Nel, RMI, Louis van Huyssteen,
Investing in apprenticeships to strengthen the industry
The skills gap in the automotive sector is no longer a future concern – it’s a present-day challenge that impacts workshop efficiency, service quality, and long-term sustainability. That’s why MIWA accredited workshops like MJ Mechanical Repairs are actively investing in apprenticeships – strengthening their teams while contributing to a more robust, future-ready industry.
“Apprenticeships are essential for closing the skills gap. Businesses that invest in training not only uplift young professionals but also secure a sustainable, highly skilled workforce. Structured training helps maintain high standards of competency across the industry, ensuring that every individual is equipped to meet the demands of modern vehicles and deliver top-quality service,” says Louis van Huyssteen, National Director of Training at the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI).
Pieter Niemand, National Director of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), says stories like these are key to motivating more small and medium-sized workshops to consider the long-term value of apprenticeships. “We’re seeing the benefits of mentoring and on-the-job learning. It’s an investment, yes, but one that offers sustainable returns for both the business and the broader industry.”
For Johan Nel, MIWA Executive Committee Member and owner of MJ Mechanical Repairs, taking on an apprentice was not initially planned. But when a former school holiday student, Tristan, showed initiative after completing matric, Nel saw potential. “We weren’t actively hiring, but when 2025 kicked off with increased workload, Tristan immediately came to mind,” says Nel. “He’s proven to be an asset. He is quick to learn, full of ideas, and genuinely enthusiastic. Apprentices like him improve our efficiency and team dynamic.”
MJ Mechanical applied for a merSETA grant in 2025 to support Tristan’s training. “The process has been fairly straightforward, and it’s a win-win – the apprentice’s study fees are covered, and the business benefits from the additional support without financial strain,” says Nel.
Nel’s daughter Bianca, who runs the business’s admin and marketing, was instrumental in helping her husband Mike qualify through the ARPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) route after a failed training experience with a previous employer. “It took perseverance and constant follow-up, but we did it,” she says. “That experience gave us the confidence and knowledge to help Tristan now.”
Training, Nel says, has already had a significant impact on our business, both in terms of skill development and overall growth. “With years of combined experience in the petrol and diesel mechanic trade among our qualified mechanics, our apprentice has the opportunity to learn from some of the best. By teaching him the correct techniques from the start, we ensure that he is equipped to perform tasks properly and efficiently. As a result, our business benefits from having a highly skilled and competent individual delivering quality work, which ultimately drives our success and growth.”
When asked what advice he would give to other workshop owners, Nel is clear. “The youth are the future of our trade. If we don’t invest in them now, we risk losing critical skills and weakening our industry. Apprenticeships don’t just benefit the individual. They enhance the business, bring in fresh energy, and ensure continuity.” He also stresses that even small workshops with limited resources can contribute. “Start by offering job shadowing or holiday work. You’ll quickly identify those with genuine passion and potential.”
Nel says the biggest challenge for many young people entering the trade is financial. “Apprentices need a salary and attend full-time training one week each month. That’s why grants like merSETA’s are so important. But awareness is still low. More businesses need to understand how to access this support.”
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