Coleg Cambria Deeside is experiencing a significant rise in enrolments for its hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) courses, reflecting the increasing demand for skilled technicians in the automotive sector. The trend coincides with a surge in Engineering and Automotive qualifications at the college, including apprenticeships and advanced diplomas.
Carl Black, Assistant Principal for the Institute of Technology and Site Lead at Deeside, reported that certain cohorts, such as the Level 2 Diploma in Engineering, have nearly doubled in size this academic year.
“Across the board, we’re seeing more interest, particularly in Automotive and Engineering. With the demand for repair services and manufacturing growing, our college is well-equipped with experienced staff and state-of-the-art facilities to meet these industry needs,” said Black.
Preparing for the EV Skills Gap
The popularity of hybrid and EV repair courses highlights the urgent need for technicians in the sector. Coleg Cambria has enrolled hundreds of learners in its Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Repair qualifications over the past three years. This includes the recently launched Level 4 Award in Diagnosis and Rectification of Faults in Electric and Hybrid Vehicles, which provides advanced skills for diagnosing complex issues.
The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) predicts a shortfall of 16,000 qualified EV technicians by 2035 unless more training initiatives are introduced. IMI data shows that only 24% of the UK automotive workforce currently holds EV-specific qualifications.
Charles Jones, a lecturer at the college, is optimistic that the increase in learner numbers will help address the skills gap.
“Many garages are sending apprentices and full-time employees to us for upskilling. We ensure our learners gain real-world experience through placements, making them job-ready by the time they leave. Encouragingly, we’re also seeing more women enter the sector, which is a step towards greater diversity,” he said.
Cutting-Edge Facilities
Coleg Cambria’s investment in modern technology and partnerships with local employers strengthens its position as a leader in automotive training. Carl Black emphasised the importance of providing students with industry-standard tools and education.
“Our facilities are second to none, and we’re continually pushing boundaries to ensure our learners are prepared for the evolving automotive landscape. By addressing the skills gap, we’re supporting the industry not only in north-east Wales but also across the UK.”
A Brighter Future
As the UK accelerates its transition to electric vehicles, the growing enrolment at Coleg Cambria Deeside demonstrates a proactive response to industry demands. With a focus on cutting-edge education and inclusivity, the college is helping to pave the way for the next generation of automotive professionals.
