A new micro-credential providing a comprehensive introduction to the commercial road transport industry was launched by industry training provider MITO and the Road Transport Forum over the summer.

The Introduction to Commercial Road Transport is designed for individuals who have left secondary school and are interested in a career in the road transport industry.

“Encouraging young people, particularly young women, to join our industry has been a major challenge for road transport for quite some time,” says RTF’s Nick Leggett.

“However, it’s not just about getting people into the industry – it is making sure that we provide those people with a reason to stay.

“The employment market is incredibly competitive and young people have plenty of choice when it comes to careers. We know there are certain things that our industry has to do better and one of those is to offer more professional and career development opportunities.”  

From vehicle systems and documentation through to driver roles and customer service, the Introduction to Commercial Road Transport will help those leaving school or new to road transport gain a foothold in the industry.

“We’ve worked closely with industry to ensure this micro-credential meets their specific training requirements,” MITO chief executive Janet Lane said when the micro-credential was announced. 

“It provides an exciting career pathway for both school leavers and those considering a career change, as well providing foundation knowledge for those already working in the industry.

Adds Leggett: “Jobs in road freight transport are skilled jobs, and we need people in them with recognised qualifications. 

“The great thing with this micro-credential is that it can be completed while trainees are on the job and at their own pace.”

Research undertaken by RTF indicated that over 80% of operators support greater on-the-job training opportunities.

“We are working with MITO to develop a further five micro-credentials that will mean students can progressively increase their knowledge in skills directly relevant to advancement within the industry. We also believe operators will see real value in promoting these micro-credentials with their staff – developing their range of skills and therefore making them more valuable to the business,” says Leggett.

Enrolment for the Introduction to Commercial Road Transport (Level 3) can be done either by joining RTF’s Te ara ki tua Road to success traineeship programme or through MITO, the only condition being that you have left secondary school.