MIWA empowers young learners with industry partnerships

The Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA) has collaborated with key suppliers like HaynesPro, TecAlliance, Bosch and others, to launch SpannerTorque.

This new technical platform is designed to empower its members. It provides access to the latest technical trends and product information.

One of the positive outcomes of the regional SpannerTorque sessions has been increased collaboration between suppliers and technical high schools where MIWA hosts Motor Mech competitions, which aim to encourage more young people to enter the automotive sector and showcase the opportunities available.

MIWA currently hosts these competitions in Kariega, the Western Cape, East London and KwaZulu-Natal. Dr Böhmer School of Skills in Bloemfontein will host its first Motor Mech competition next year.

Dr. Böhmer’s deputy principal, Jan Claassen, recently hosted a SpannerTorque evening for MIWA and Alfred Teves Brake Systems (ATBS). Impressed by the presentation, Claassen invited ATBS to address the school’s learners.

Dr. Böhmer is a school for learners with special educational needs and offers specialised training in various subjects, including motor mechanics. Claassen expressed his excitement about exposing his students to industry experts and practical applications.

The MIWA chairperson, Dewald Ranft, generously offered the school spare parts and engines and connected them with Bruno Burri of Swedo-Tech. This led to a successful SpannerTorque event on the school’s premises.

Alfred Teves Brake Systems (ATBS) was impressed by the event and expressed interest in further involvement with the school. This resulted in a presentation by Evan Schreiber to the students and teachers.

Schreiber’s presentation on braking systems was perfectly timed for the school’s Year 4 learners, who were studying this topic. He provided valuable insights into the inner workings of brake systems and even allowed learners to test their knowledge and skills.

Schreiber’s enthusiasm and expertise resonated with the learners, and ATBS has been invited back to do further presentations in 2025. The collaboration will also involve incorporating some information into the school’s curriculum.

MIWA believes these interactions to be crucial for attracting more young people into the automotive sector and addressing the critical skills shortage. The organisation is grateful for the ongoing support of its suppliers and technical schools.

Source: Cathy Findley PR