Auto painting a unique blend of artistry and technology
Explore the canvas of the automotive industry, where auto painting emerges as a sought-after skill, blending science and artistry.
Jacques Viljoen, national director of the South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (SAMBRA) emphasises the unique blend of science and artistry required for car painting. It goes beyond applying a coat of colour, it transforms a vehicle into a mobile work of art, making it a highly sought-after scarce skill globally.
In a time when employment opportunities are challenging for many young people, automotive painting stands out as an exciting career path. Trevor Vogl, regional technical manager for BASF Coatings South Africa, notes the massive skills shortage, both locally and internationally, emphasising the need for innovative approaches to attract talent to the industry.
Viljoen sheds light on the modern car painter’s skill set, covering surface preparation, colour matching, spray painting, and creative detailing. It’s a dynamic field demanding technical know-how and artistic flair.
South Africa has six candidates preparing for the national competition in February 2024, gearing up for the 47th WorldSkills Competition in Lyon, France, in September 2024. BASF, a global sponsor of automotive spray painting in WorldSkills, plays a crucial role in skills development. Wayne Brandon from BASF is the subject matter expert for Automotive Spray Painting, a trade Team South Africa will engage in during the 2024 WorldSkills competition.
Boitumelo Mphanya, RMI training manager, encourages aspiring automotive painters to explore opportunities through public higher education institutions and accredited skills development providers like Motheo, False Bay, and C3. These institutions offer pathways to acquire the necessary skills.
Potential automotive spray painters can gain first-hand experience through job shadowing, consultations with industry professionals, or exploring educational institutions. Online resources also provide valuable insights.
SAMBRA, committed to promoting motor body repair industry trades, collaborates with Motheo TVET College in Bloemfontein. The association supports initiatives like the Hollard project, working with C3 and a decentralised trade test centre in Bloemfontein for the Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL) project.
C3 Academy, a private skills development provider, takes pride in Neo Motshabela, a qualified motor body repairer and co-owner, appointed as the designated South African WorldSkills expert for the motor body repair trade.
In unison, SAMBRA, industry leaders, and educational institutions strive to paint a brighter future for young South Africans in the automotive industry.
Source: Cathy Findley PR
