Challenge 4: Workforce skills to procure and operate zero emission HGVs and their energy infrastructure
World we wish to see:
- Scotland has a skilled workforce, confident and equipped to handle the challenges presented by mass transition to zero emission HGVs.
- Sufficient training courses are in place to support the procurement and operation of zero emission HGVs, including for decision makers.
- There is widespread access to training courses which support those entering the workforce, those already in the sector and workers retraining from other industries.
- There are high levels of awareness of the training courses and employment opportunities in Scotland associated with zero emission HGVs and energy infrastructure.
Already happening
Hydrogen qualifications are under development, with Institute of the Motor Industry Level 1 Hydrogen Vehicle Awareness available now, and more technical maintenance qualifications at levels 2 and 3 being written.
Energy Skills Partnership chair an Automotive Training Network to increase colleges’ capacity in zero emission transport skills. This includes local colleges delivering awareness events for electric vehicle courses to local garages; and a Hydrogen Training Network (see below).
Work is already underway to refresh many of the initial training frameworks in colleges and universities.
Transport Scotland has published a report to baseline the skills situation for the heavy duty vehicle sector in Scotland.
Taskforce actions:
- RHA and SMMT will identify occupational career pathways and existing training courses, and evidence gaps in provision and funding. A pipeline of training offerings and a training map will be published.
- SMMT will develop and publish a skills for technology road map.
- The Scottish Government will identify and share widely the learning from decarbonisation of the bus and public fleet sectors, and the development of the public charging network for light vehicles in Scotland and work with other countries to exchange learning on HGV decarbonisation.
Case Study
The Energy Skills Partnership (ESP) is a collaboration of Scotland’s colleges, established with the aim of increasing Scotland’s capacity to deliver skills supporting the move to net zero.
Hydrogen Training Network:
ESP has developed a programme of activity to support the upskilling of training staff and industry. This includes Scotland’s first accredited hydrogen qualification, the Professional Development Award Hydrogen: An introduction for Technicians and hydrogen qualifications from the Institute of the Motor Industry piloting in Scotland’s colleges. There are also free online learning courses on hydrogen awareness and hydrogen in transport, and specialist resources such as simulators, training rigs and a virtual reality hydrogen operating environment.
Automotive Training Network:
ESP provides access to training and equipment to allow colleges to teach the skills needed for zero emission vehicles. This includes Truck Train Training Systems that replicate an electric heavy vehicle and allow learners to undertake experiments and fault-finding in a safe environment. ESP also facilitates CPD visits, including to Kittybrewster hydrogen refuelling station and Alexander Dennis to see electric and hydrogen fuel cell buses being manufactured.