As thousands of matrics across South Africa receive their 2025 results, many young people are now facing one of the biggest decisions of their lives: what comes next? While university may seem like the default choice, it is not the only – nor always the best – path to a successful, future-fit career.
For many learners, particularly those who enjoy solving problems, working with technology and using their hands, a trade in the automotive sector could be the breakthrough opportunity they are looking for.
“Not everyone needs, wants, or is suited to university and that is absolutely okay,” says Louis van Huyssteen, National Training Director of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI). “A trade qualification gives young people a clear pathway into meaningful work. In the automotive sector, it opens doors not only in South Africa, but around the world.”
South Africa’s automotive aftermarket remains one of the most stable and essential sectors of the economy, supporting more than 300,000 jobs and over 22,000 businesses and contributing approximately 2.1% of GDP. It offers a wide range of specialist career options. From mechanical diagnostics and electrical systems to motor body repair, spray painting, parts, tyres and battery technology, every subsector is experiencing a shortage of qualified artisans.
“The reality is that South Africa urgently needs more trained artisans,” says van Huyssteen. “Young people who choose this route are stepping into a sector that is modern, technology-driven and constantly evolving and the job prospects are strong. Many apprentices secure employment long before they qualify.”
An apprenticeship combines theoretical learning, practical training and workplace experience. After completing their modules, learners can write a trade test to become qualified artisans, a designation that is respected and portable across the globe.
With the transition to Occupational Qualifications now fully in place, learners follow a structured, industry-aligned pathway that ensures they gain knowledge, practical skills and real workplace competency. “These qualifications prepare young people for the vehicles of the future – hybrids, EVs, advanced diagnostics and more,” van Huyssteen adds.
The sector has also made significant strides in encouraging greater diversity. More young women are entering artisan training than ever before, excelling in mechanical, electrical, diagnostic and motor body repair roles. “Women bring technical precision and strong problem-solving skills,” says van Huyssteen. “They are thriving in workshops and moving into leadership roles.”
For learners weighing their next steps, particularly those who may not have achieved the university marks they hoped for, a trade offers a clear, respected and financially rewarding alternative. Many artisans progress quickly, building successful careers or even opening their own businesses.
“An apprenticeship teaches discipline, critical thinking and resilience,” says van Huyssteen. “These are skills for life. A young person who qualifies as an artisan can build a stable career, support their family and contribute meaningfully to the economy.”
The RMI encourages learners to explore opportunities through TVET colleges, registered training providers and RMI associations such as MIWA (mechanical workshops), TEPA (tyres, equipment, parts) and SAMBRA (motor body repair).
“As the new year begins, I want young South Africans to know this – your future is not defined by one exam result,” concludes van Huyssteen. “There are many paths to success. A trade in the automotive sector is one of the most empowering, globally portable and opportunity-rich choices you can make.”
Click on our careers page here to find out what exciting career opportunities the Automotive aftermarket has to offer.
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