In the Aftermarket Voices series of articles, Niterra UK’s marketing manager Becca Knight reflects on some of the conversations she’s had while co-hosting The Spark Inside podcast. In this instalment, she looks at the growing opportunities for entrants to the sector and what they need to do to progress.
The automotive aftermarket isn’t just evolving – it’s expanding. According to the UK’s Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), the sector contributes over £21 billion annually to the economy and is projected to see continued growth driven by electrification, diagnostics and digitalisation. As these demands grow, so too do the opportunities for meaningful and rewarding careers.
From engineering and diagnostics to workshop management and technical training, the industry now offers a wider range of roles than ever before. But how do young people discover these opportunities – and what helps them stay the course? Industry leaders, educators and workshop owners will all play a role in nurturing the next generation.
“What sparked it for me? My mum,” said motorsport mechanic Charlie Broughton, speaking on The Spark Inside podcast. “She was a big Formula One fan. After watching it with her, I thought: this is the career I want.”
Not everyone has early exposure to automotive careers, which is why access to information, mentorship and practical experience is vital. For those with the ambition, there is no shortage of pathways. From apprenticeships and college courses to in-house training and on-the-job learning, there are multiple ways in.
At Niterra UK, we’re passionate about helping people into the trade and keeping them there. Technical education, mentoring and recognition all play a part. We need people to know that this isn’t just a job – it’s a skilled, rewarding career.
For motorsport careers too, technical understanding can provide the perfect foundations. Driver coach and Porsche Sprint Challenge racer Max Coates agrees (MAIN IMAGE): “It’s not just about turning up and driving – it’s about understanding the car, the setup, how it all works. That came from working alongside my dad, who’s a mechanic, and getting stuck in early on.”
Whether it’s through structured learning or hands-on experience, the message is clear: support matters. And so does showing young people that this sector is for them. By fostering inclusive education, celebrating success, and championing industry ambassadors, we ensure the aftermarket thrives for the next generation.
Shaping your own development
Personal drive is often what separates good technicians from great ones. The best in the business aren’t just reacting to problems – they’re constantly improving, refining and pushing their own limits.
That dedication creates a ripple effect. When one person in a workshop commits to training, everyone benefits. It lifts the standard, boosts morale and inspires the next apprentice in line.
Speaking on The Spark Inside podcast, Chris Neville, performance coach for Team GB Speedway, explains how that sentiment of self-improvement leading to high performance is echoed across many disciplines: “Every rider’s different. But when someone wants to understand themselves, when they want to improve, that’s when the results come. It’s about mindset, feedback, and pushing for those marginal gains.”
Developing your own skills doesn’t require a seismic shift. It starts with realistic goals and the first small steps. Analyse your strengths and weaknesses. Embrace new challenges and consider formal or informal mentorship or training. As performance engineer Jahee Campbell-Brennan put it: “You’ve got to create the opportunity yourself sometimes. Don’t wait for permission.”
Learning doesn’t have to mean a classroom. Online forums, hands-on tasks, manufacturer-led webinars and short courses can all help technicians deepen their knowledge. Many workshops are now investing in shared resources or training schemes to futureproof their workforce.
Modern vehicles demand new knowledge. From EV systems and ADAS to connected diagnostics, the aftermarket is moving fast. According to the IMI, over 90,000 technicians will need to be EV-qualified by 2030 to keep up with demand.
Technicians who embrace lifelong learning will always stay in demand. Whether it’s gaining a new certification, exploring hybrid systems, or mastering digital service records, small steps lead to long-term success.
