Mechanics need to be ‘academic’

Press, 24 October 1984, Page 20

Mechanics need to be ‘academic’

PA Dunedin Sophisticated motorvehicles of the future will require mechanics of high academic ability, says the retiring president of the Motor Trade Association, Mr I. W..- McMeeking. Industry training was the area in the industry that really needed urgent development, he told the association’s annual conference in Dunedin. “To survive the 1980 s and beyond into the twenty-first century — only 15 years away — employers will need to lift sights by encouraging apprentices with far greater academic capabilities than in the past. “That does not necessarily eliminate less-scholarly youngsters, for fragmentation of the industry into specialised areas has opened a wide range of opportunities for people with a variety of skills. “But under the bonnet and behind the dash, tomorrow’s computerised masterpieces on wheels will require the attention of a practical pair of hands guided by an academic mind.” The days of mechanics repairing and servicing all parts of every make and model were over, Mr McMeeking said. “Technological . change

dictates that certain sophisticated vehicle equipment will only be serviced and handled by technicians with the highest qualifications,” he said. He was concerned that a commitment to training was not shared by all motor industry employers, describing the situation as “a pity”?

“Without such commitment by employers, the industry is open to further incursion by the Government, and history has proved that to be the wrong answer,”, he said. “In the past, the motor industry has been subjected to massive economic pressures.”

Any new training systems should be “responsive to the bottom line needs” of the industry and market based. Most training should come from within the industry, he said.

Present employees should be retained to meet changes within the industry: In the meanwhile, the Government should take advantage of association members’ depth of knowledge and influence when attempting to deal with industry matters. “The Labour Government, since its election, has exemplified by its economic summit its willingness to talk with trade associations. It is imperative that the motor industry becomes involved in these discussions,” he said.

“With many years’ experience, the association must be able to make a valuable contribution in some of the traditional problem areas, and also in some of the newer ones like those created by' the Marsden Point expansion site and the coastal tanker dispute.