Attracting the next generation of staff is a conundrum, although a scroll of LinkedIn or observation of coaches and buses in action shows that the sector is already bringing in young people. The worry sits around whether they are arriving in sufficient numbers.
Engagement with that demographic could be an influence there. One industry member believes the young could hold a perception of transport that stunts scope to recruit from their field.
They offer that welcoming would-be employees into depots and showing how the industry works is a good way of tackling that barrier. Addressing health and safety implications might require some thought, but it is done already in some cases.
How many people on the outside understand what makes a coach or bus run? Very few, and the same can no doubt be said about the technology that sits behind a compliant operation and its vehicles.
Perhaps that is the case because the industry is not loud enough in telling third parties what it does and where opportunities lie. Manufacturer Wrightbus has long done exactly that, and it reaps the resulting rewards.
Role models, case studies and – most importantly – letting young people in to see what happens and learn about the careers available are relatively easy wins. A central resource is also cited by the industry insider as worthwhile.
Clear is that this will not happen on its own. Developing the workforce of the future is something the sector must take on itself if it is to avoid the ‘retirement cliff edge’ cliché turning to reality.
