Tony has 41 years of experience in the automotive industry. He started as an apprentice and has since worked in most roles related to product development and service.
He is now a published author and runs his own consultancy business focusing on supporting the Automotive sector.
He is born in South Africa, lived in Canada, and now in Australia for the last 20 years.
He focuses on the positive motivation for all people in the auto industry.
Change is all about the 1%. Adjust a little bit each time to make a difference. Cumulatively this can make a significant change.
Technology is making a big difference to job functions and the available roles. It is all about people. You have to adjust your mindset and adapt.
The following challenges for the auto industry are electrification. There will still be a lot of mechanical issues that need addressing. However, the 1% will be learning about the safety issues related to the electrification of vehicles. The electric technician will be the top tier mechanic. Some people will be able to reskill, and others will need to be new to the industry.
If you set your mind to it then you can become very good at it.
New types of certification are required for future roles. These can be provided after retraining and training. The automatic sector has been going through changes for decades. Professionals from all automotive trades are used to the change which requires constant reskilling.
"Ask yourself: What can people do that robots and computers cannot?"
Advice to young apprentices: Embrace the future and the change it brings. Do a personal SWOT. What are your strengths and opportunities? Don't worry too much about weaknesses. However, if it is not what you are passionate about, do not waste your time. Do you want to survive in this world? If you do, embrace change. Have a positive outlook on personal opportunities.
For leaders there used to be a focus just on IQ. Then the move was towards EQ or emotional intelligence. Tony thinks that the next stage is SQ or spiritual awareness. Have a positive frame of mind and be clear about what you want to achieve. Be honest with the team you guide and lead and be honest with feedback.
In Summary:
Positivity is a choice we can all make
Choose to make deliberate choices
Make a series of 1% adjustments to make massive changes and improvements
Make a decision that you want to adapt to the changes Be clear about your personal objectives and goals.
Be prepared to make the necessary changes to achieve goals.
Be alert to opportunities. Look for your strengths, not your weaknesses.
Get a mentor and tap into wise peoples' advice.