MTA Ambassador Program

The MTA Ambassador Program empowers apprentices to represent their peers, promote the automotive industry and inspire future apprentices through events, storytelling and industry engagement. Ambassadors act as role models and help strengthen the connection between MTA, apprentices, employers, schools and industry partners.

Connection

Gain industry exposure and professional networks.

Driving leadership

Build leadership, communication and public‑speaking skills.

Making an impact

Help shape the future of training and the industry.

Why did we start this Program

The program aims to:

Give apprentices a stronger voice to inform training and industry improvements.
Showcase real apprentice stories to inspire future talent.
Develop future leaders through professional development and exposure to industry events.
Strengthen collaboration between apprentices, employers, schools and MTA.

WHAT DO AMBASSADORS DO

The Role of the Ambassadors

Events

Participate in school visits, open days, careers expos and recruitment events (when available).

Training Insights

Provide constructive feedback on training and other key industry issues.

Representation

Represent MTA and their trade in a professional and positive manner.

Student Advisory Council

Attend quarterly roundtables with MTA leadership to discuss key industry topics.

Career Awareness

Take part in interviews, photography, videos and social media content creation.

CRITERIA

Who can apply

To become an Ambassador, applicants must:

Be a current 2nd or 3rd year MTA apprentice.
Be enrolled in an MTA Training and Employment-delivered Certificate III qualification (RTO Provider: 2293).
Demonstrate strong communication, professionalism and leadership potential.
Be willing to participate in roundtables, events, school visits and social media content.
Commit to a 12‑month term (option to reapply for a second year) under a contract.
Ambassadors are selected from the MTA Apprentice Award finalists across all automotive trades such as dual trades, auto electrical, light/heavy vehicle, ag mechanical, refinishing, body repair, mobile plant etc.

RECOGNITION

What Ambassadors receive

Ambassadors receive a $1,000 honorarium per 12‑month term – recognition for contributing to the Program—not paid employment.

Plus:

Branded Ambassador apparel (golf shirt + jumper)
Merch starter pack including partner‑branded items
Leadership and professional development opportunities
Participation in high‑profile events:
- MTA Graduation & Awards
- Adelaide Jobs & Careers Expo
- Automotive Careers Days
- Trade shows, media activities and more

The Process

1 Award Finalists Chosen

All shortlisted Award nominees are eligible to apply for the Ambassador Program, with the formal process beginning in January 2026.

2 Interviews & Selection

Throughout February 2026, MTA will conduct the selection process to identify apprentices who demonstrate leadership potential, professionalism and a commitment to representing their employer and trade.

3 Ambassadors Announced

Successful applicants are officially appointed as Ambassadors at the end of February 2026, followed by their announcement at the MTA Graduation & Awards event on 13th March 2026.

4 Program Start

From May 2026 through November 2026, Ambassadors participate in a range of activities including expos, careers days, trade shows and ongoing content creation, representing both their trade and the automotive industry across South Australia.

If you have any questions about the process, please browse our FAQ's section.

BENEFITS

Why should employers support this Program

Supporting your apprentice to become an MTA Ambassador is an investment in both your business and the future of South Australia’s automotive industry.

The program helps develop confident, skilled and motivated apprentices who return to the workplace with stronger communication, leadership and professionalism — qualities that directly benefit your team and customers.

Develop stronger apprentices
Ambassadors gain exposure to leadership development, industry engagement and public-facing activities, helping them build confidence, responsibility and maturity that carries back into your business.
Increase your business visibility
Your apprentice represents both MTA and their employer at careers events, expos, school visits and media opportunities, raising awareness of your business and showcasing your commitment to training the next generation.
Support retention and engagement
Recognition and professional development help apprentices feel valued, improving motivation and long-term retention within your workforce.
Strengthen your industry voice
Ambassadors participate in roundtables with MTA leadership, providing real-world feedback from the workshop floor. This ensures employer perspectives and practical challenges help shape future training and industry initiatives.
Build the future talent pipeline
By supporting the program, you play an active role in inspiring future apprentices, promoting automotive careers and strengthening South Australia’s skilled workforce.

What Employer Support Looks Like

Employers are asked to support their Ambassador by:

Allowing reasonable time away from work to attend approved program activities
Encouraging participation in events, content creation and industry engagement
Supporting their apprentice as a positive representative of your business and trade

All activities are coordinated by MTA and scheduled in advance wherever possible to minimise disruption to your workplace.

Thanks to our Progam Sponsors

Would you like to get involved or sponsor this Program?
Get in contact with us!

We’d love your feedback

This program is the first of its kind for the automotive industry in Australia. We’re continually building on the program and expanding its impact across industry, employers and apprentices. We’d love to hear your feedback — including anything you think we should be focusing on as we continue to grow and improve.

SEND YOUR FEEDBACK

FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the MTA Ambassador Program?

The MTA Ambassador Program empowers selected apprentices to represent the automotive industry, share their experiences and inspire future apprentices through events, storytelling and industry engagement.

Who can apply for the Ambassador Program?

The Program is open to selected automotive apprentices in either their 2nd or 3rd Year of an apprenticeship with MTA Training and Employment and who have been invited by MTA to apply. Apprentices must have the support of their employer to participate.

Why is employer support required?

Employer support is essential to ensure apprentices can participate fully in Program activities, including events, content creation and industry engagements. The Program is designed to work alongside employment commitments, not disrupt them.

What is expected of apprentices in the Program?

Ambassadors may be involved in:

Attending industry, school and community events
Participating in promotional activities and content creation
Sharing their apprenticeship journey
Acting as positive role models for the automotive industry

Time commitments will be communicated in advance.

What is expected of employers?

Employers are asked to:

Support their apprentice’s participation in approved Program activities
Allow reasonable time for attendance at agreed events
Actively encourage their apprentice’s involvement and development

MTA works closely with employers to minimise disruption to the workplace.

How much time does the Program require?

The Program runs across a set period, with activities spread throughout the year. Participation is structured and planned, with advance notice provided for all commitments.

Is there any cost to participate?

There is no cost for apprentices or employers to participate in the Ambassador Program.

What are the benefits for apprentices?

Apprentices gain:

Leadership and communication skills
Increased confidence and industry exposure
Professional development opportunities
The chance to represent and advocate for their trade

What are the benefits for employers?

Employers benefit from:

Supporting apprentice development and retention
Positive exposure through industry promotion
Recognition as an employer investing in the future workforce
Strengthening their connection with MTA and the wider industry

Can an Ambassadors Employer support the Program in other ways?

Yes. While the Program is only open to apprentices, businesses may support the Program through sponsorship or by contributing their time and expertise. We welcome interest from businesses looking to support the Program beyond their apprentice. Contact MTA Marketing Manager, Jaydeen West, at jwest@mtasant.com.au to enquire.

How does the application process work?

Employers are required to complete an application form first. Once received, MTA will contact the apprentice to invite them to submit a formal application.

Who can I contact for more information?

If you have any questions about the Ambassador Program, please contact the MTA Marketing Manager, Jaydeen West, at jwest@mtasant.com.au.

Do apprentices receive payment for participating in the Program?

Yes. Apprentices selected for the Ambassador Program will receive a $1,000 stipend in recognition of their time and contribution to the Program.

How is the stipend paid?

The stipend is paid directly to the apprentice. Further details regarding payment timing and process will be provided to successful applicants.

How long does the Ambassador Program run?

The Program typically runs for up to one year. However, apprentices who are currently in their second year may be eligible to participate for up to two years.

Do apprentices need to reapply for a second year?

Yes. Apprentices wishing to continue into a second year must reapply in November/December and follow the standard application process. Continued participation is not automatic and is subject to approval.