Repair shops struggle to find skilled specialists

Auto repair shops are finding it difficult to hire skilled workers, particularly panel beaters, ERR reported. There are just five professional panel beaters in Pärnu, and local repair shops compete to recruit them.

Employers say they can find technicians and painters, but experienced specialists are scarce. “You have to search with a lantern for people who have trained and become specialists,” said Kristjan Lagern, head of Eurostauto’s Pärnu branch.

About 20 students graduate each year from the automotive programme at Pärnu Vocational Education Centre. They study in classrooms and workshops, including in a separate classroom for learning about electric vehicles. But some students do not intend to work in the automotive field and attend because their parents tell them to.

Priit Auväärt, the programme’s lead teacher, said students learn the basics over three to four years, but must keep studying as technology advances. Modern cars have increasingly complex electronic systems, he said.

Amserv supports students at the centre with scholarships to help develop its future workforce. This year, the company awarded its 750-euro scholarship for the seventh time. Recipient Robin Mitt, a second-year automotive student, also received a placement. He said his interest in cars began in childhood and that technicians need strong knowledge of electrical systems.

A modern car technician must be able to work under the bonnet, understand electronic devices and use TikTok to post short videos explaining customers’ car problems, the report said.