Continuous Professional Development (CPD)

In an era marked by unprecedented changes, few industries have encountered as significant upheaval as the automotive sector. Across the country, independent workshops, dealerships and garages find themselves navigating a landscape constantly shaped by technological advancements, shifting consumer preferences and stringent regulatory requirements. To thrive in this environment, businesses must not only invest in cutting-edge tools and equipment but also prioritise upskilling their workforce and encouraging Continuous Professional Development (CPD) to effectively manage the demands of an evolving vehicle set. 

As vehicles become more sophisticated and technologically advanced, the need for specialised diagnostic tools and equipment becomes increasingly apparent. By investing in these resources, businesses can enhance their service capabilities, diagnose issues more accurately and deliver superior results to their customers. Moreover, staying abreast of the latest tools and equipment ensures that garages remain competitive in a crowded marketplace, attracting customers who prioritise quality and efficiency. 

However, the investment in tools and equipment alone is not sufficient to meet the challenges of the modern automotive industry. Equally important is the upskilling of workforces and CPD to effectively leverage these resources and adapt to the evolving needs of vehicle maintenance and repair. As new technologies emerge and vehicles become more complex, technicians must continuously update their skills and knowledge to remain proficient in their roles. Whether it's mastering the intricacies of hybrid and electric vehicle systems, understanding advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), or staying informed about the latest software updates, ongoing training and development are essential. 

From electric vehicles to autonomous driving technology, the landscape is constantly changing. CPD enables automotive professionals to stay abreast of these advancements, ensuring they can effectively implement new technologies, troubleshoot emerging issues and offer cutting-edge solutions to consumers. 

Regulations governing the automotive industry are also continually evolving, particularly concerning safety and environmental standards. CPD ensures professionals remain informed about these regulations, reducing the risk of non-compliance and associated penalties. Moreover, staying updated on safety standards through CPD helps enhance product quality and consumer trust, ultimately contributing to a safer driving experience for all. 

MOT testers have faced CPD for years. Not keeping up with their annual training and assessment jeopardises their ability to continue testing. Now, reflecting the MOT CPD, the IMI’s TechSafe™ recognises a vehicle technician’s EV and ADAS skills and qualification achievements within the IMI Professional Register. To remain on the register, within 3 years of qualifying a technician must undertake 18 hours of CPD. And the benefits of this are plenty.  

CPD allows professionals to hone their skills within their respective fields, whether it's mastering the intricacies of hybrid engine technology or refining customer service techniques. By investing in CPD, individuals can enhance their expertise, become subject matter experts and advance their careers within the industry.

Continuous professional development also encourages professionals to think outside the box and explore innovative solutions to industry challenges. By engaging in workshops, seminars and collaborative projects, individuals can exchange ideas, share best practices, and spark creativity. This culture of innovation not only benefits individual professionals but also drives progress within the automotive sector as a whole, leading to breakthroughs in design, manufacturing processes and customer experience.

Encouragingly, the training message has been resonating across the industry with increasing numbers of vehicle technicians upskilling. We are not operating in a stagnant sector though, so, as the industry continues to foster a culture of training, CPD should be built into annual training strategies. In fact, statistics suggest that companies offering comprehensive CPD programmes experience a 24% increase in employee engagement and a 21% increase in productivity. 

By integrating CPD into annual training strategies, businesses can foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. Whether it's mastering new technologies, enhancing customer service skills, or staying updated on regulatory requirements, CPD empowers professionals to stay ahead of the curve and deliver exceptional results to their customers.

For many, the thought of fitting in CPD when a garage’s work schedule is already packed may seem overwhelming. However, CPD activities can take many forms, including activities which can be done as part of a day-to-day role. 

It could be reading a relevant article, learning on the job from peers or joining an online training session – it all counts.  

There are many automotive-specific CPD courses available and digital spaces for the storing of vital documents; training records and certificates which count towards CPD.  

Autotech Training, for example, offers CPD courses and a digital repository for storage of documents and certificates which count towards Continuous Professional Development. 

CPD isn't just a checkbox for compliance; it's a strategic investment that drives business success. Research shows that businesses that invest in CPD see a significant boost in productivity, employee satisfaction and ultimately, profitability.   

Moreover, CPD isn't a one-time event; it's an ongoing journey of growth and learning.  

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the importance of CPD cannot be overstated. It's not just about keeping up with the latest trends; it's about shaping the future of the industry and driving positive change. By embracing CPD and investing in the professional development of their workforce, businesses can position themselves as leaders in the automotive sector and seize the countless opportunities that lie ahead. 

To support the continuous upskilling of vehicle technicians in an era of rapid automotive technological advancements, Autotech Training has launched Autolearn, a dynamic Learner Management System (LMS). The online learning platform is set to revolutionise how vehicle technicians engage in Continued Professional Development (CPD), ensuring compliance and proficiency in repairing and maintaining EVs and ADAS-enabled vehicles. Supporting mandatory IMI TechSafe™ recognised CPD routes, Autolearn offers modular, bite-sized e-learning courses adaptable to meet the busy schedules of learners.