As the auto industry in Malaysia keeps growing, the need for a bigger workforce grows likewise. However, there has to be a pool of human resources from which companies can draw from, and in order to build this pool. Some companies provide training programmes to incubate young Malaysians who aspire to start a career in the auto industry.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) is one of them and has a Training Academy which has been in operation since 1984. More than 900 apprentices have graduated from this academy and they are working with the brand’s authorised dealers in various positions across different specializations. On average, the programme has been receiving 500 applicants annually since 2017.
“As the technology of Mercedes-Benz vehicles continues to evolve, gearing for Battery Electric Vehicle readiness and the acceleration of dealer network expansion locally, we want to continue training and growing our skilled workforce to meet this demand,” said Edmin Naidoo, Vice-President of Customer Services, Mercedes-Benz Cars, Malaysia & SEA II.
One of the programmes is the Advanced Modern Apprenticeship, a 3-year course which covers a wide range of globally approved syllabuses and training guidelines by Mercedes-Benz Global Training with Mercedes-Benz Competence elements to ensure trainees continue development with the brand. The programme incorporates International Qualifications up to Level 3 and is recognised by the Department of Skills Development under the Ministry of Human Resources.
As part of the brand’s strategy and global direction to lead in electric, Mercedes-Benz has developed a new profile for the Electric Vehicle Specialists, known as Expert in High Voltage (EHV) which will make its debut in the programme this year. This new syllabus will be added on the existing modules as part of the brand’s efforts to train and equip talents to be future-ready for the demands of mobility of tomorrow.
By the end of the Advanced Modern Apprenticeship programme, participants will gain certification in NDTS Level 3, C&G VRQ Level 3, Qualified Maintenance Technician (QMT), Qualified System Technician (QST)/Qualified Service Advisor (QSA)/Expert in High Voltage (EHV), depending on the specialisation chosen. They will also be fully equipped wide range of skills including presentation, critical analysis, decision-making, systematic thinking as an automotive technician for systems and high-voltage technology.
The programme also guarantees employment upon completion with guaranteed minimum salary in the first year with incremental opportunity thereafter. The entire course will be held at the purpose-built Mercedes-Benz National Training Academy in Bandar Kinrara, Puchong, Selangor.
Applications are open from now till July 31, 2022 and those who are interested can find out more at the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Training Academy Open Day happening this June 25, 2022 (from 9 am till 12 noon) at Wisma Mercedes-Benz in Puchong, Selangor. The minimum requirement is 3 credits in SPM or equivalent with a pass in English.
“Education is power and we want to invite and tap into Malaysia’s brightest young talents to join us through our Mercedes-Benz Global Training programme. This is a great platform for us to recruit, nurture and develop talent that will become an integral component of delivering a seamless luxurious retail experience to our customers and further grow our presence in the country. There is a national demand for highly skilled talent in the automotive industry and through this apprenticeship, we are able to offer Malaysians an exciting opportunity and career with us,” said Sagree Sardien, President & CEO of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, and Head of Region, Southeast Asia II.
Mercedes-Benz to have regional After-Sales Logistics Centre in Malaysia from 2024