3rd ICAI 2024

International Conference on Automotive Industry 2024

Mladá Boleslav, Czech Republic

adaptation in the automotive sector and highlights areas for further research and policy development. 4.1 Conclusion The research offers an in-depth analysis that reveals the challenges and adaptation needs of the automotive workforce amid the industry’s shift towards sustainability and electromobility. Applying Grounded Theory, the study uncovers the specific requisites for reskilling and upskilling, particularly highlighting the critical position of line workers who are directly impacted by shifts in job roles and skills demands. The paper advocates for the creation of specialized training that is designed to meet the varied needs of the workforce. These training modules should specifically address the transition from traditional manufacturing processes to those centered on electric vehicles and digitalization, ensuring relevance and direct applicability to the workers’ evolving roles. A significant emphasis is placed on integrating practical, hands-on experiences within the training frameworks. This methodological shift is vital for equipping workers with tangible skills that closely mirror the anticipated real-world scenarios within the automotive sector. Such practical engagements not only facilitate effective learning but are also instrumental in smoothing the transition of these skills into the workplace. Recognizing the rapid pace at which technological and sustainability practices evolve in the automotive industry, the study underscores the importance of establishing continuous learning pathways. These pathways are envisioned to offer workers ongoing opportunities for skill enhancement, allowing them to adapt to future technological advancements and remain competitive in their field. Addressing the emotional and psychological well-being of workers emerges as a critical component of the recommended strategies. The study identifies a prevalent sense of anxiety among workers regarding job security and adaptation to new technologies and processes. It recommends the implementation of support systems aimed at providing emotional and psychological assistance and fostering a culture of trust, openness, and resilience. In addition, collaborations with educational institutions and industry partners are recommended. Such partnerships are crucial for ensuring that training programs are aligned with current and future industry standards, thereby enhancing the workforce’s readiness for upcoming challenges. Furthermore, the incorporation of Just Transition principles into training programs is advocated. This approach emphasizes fairness, equity, and comprehensive support for all workers, particularly those most vulnerable to the industry’s transformative impacts. Lastly, the study stresses the need for a robust mechanism to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of training programs. By soliciting feedback from participants, the industry can continuously refine and adjust its training methodologies to better meet the evolving needs of the workforce. Through these strategies, the paper outlines a comprehensive wholistic framework aimed at developing a skilled and adaptable automotive workforce, that will help to navigate the complexities of the industry’s transition towards a more sustainable and technologically advanced future. This approach not only ensures a smoother adaptation to new operational paradigms but also champions a Just Transition that is inclusive, equitable, and forward-looking.

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