Reaching Students in the Riverland and Metro Adelaide
Our School Pathways & Engagement Officer, David Warren, has been out on the road, sparking interest in automotive careers at expos and schools across South Australia!
From the Riverland Secondary School Alliance Expo in Barmera – where students from Berri, Renmark, Waikerie, Loxton, Swan Reach and beyond got hands-on with automotive activities – to a series of career events in Adelaide, David has been showcasing the opportunities our industry has to offer.
He has also represented the MTA at the Westminster School Careers Expo, Norwood International, Aberfoyle Park High School, Christian Brothers College, and led immersive sessions at Urrbrae Agricultural High School.
These visits help students see what a future in automotive can look like – and why it’s such a smart, rewarding career choice.
THRIVE Week at Brighton High
At Brighton High School’s THRIVE Week, David took part in a panel session with Year 10 and 11 students and ran a series of hands-on activities, including a cylinder head pull-down, pitstop challenge, paint colour matching and basic vehicle maintenance.
A standout moment was the involvement of MTA work experience student Asha Gillies, who not only assisted with the activities but also shared her journey into the automotive industry. Her firsthand insights gave students a relatable and realistic view of what it’s like to enter the trade.
The sessions sparked plenty of great conversations, and students left with a stronger understanding of the exciting opportunities a career in automotive can offer – especially hearing it from someone close to their age who’s already on the path!
Regional Roadshows – From the Limestone Coast to Port Lincoln
The School Pathways Program has also been on the move, visiting schools in Bordertown, Mount Gambier, Millicent, Kingston SE, and Port Lincoln. Students had the chance to explore the automotive industry through our interactive Automotive Career Pathways Trailer, with many also getting behind-the-scenes access to local workshops – including a tour of Eyre Car Centre in Port Lincoln, generously hosted by MTA member Todd Collie.
The response was strong, with students already applying for work experience and apprenticeships through the MTA – showing the value of delivering real-world industry exposure in regional areas.
Get Involved
These school visits play a key role in encouraging students to see the automotive industry as a future career. If you’d like to organise an MTA visit to your school or get involved with the School Pathways Program, contact David Warren by downloading his digital contact card here.
