The numbers tell a story that extends beyond representation. They highlight how women are becoming increasingly important to the future growth, sustainability and competitiveness of one of South Africa’s largest manufacturing sectors.
Breaking barriers in a changing industry
The image of the automotive sector has long been associated with mechanics, technicians and factory workers, professions historically dominated by men. However, women are increasingly establishing themselves across every part of the industry.
They are working as service advisers, dealership managers, workshop owners, parts specialists, spray painters, panel beaters, diagnostic technicians and entrepreneurs. Many are also moving into leadership positions where they influence strategic decisions and shape the future direction of businesses.
This transformation is happening at a crucial time. The automotive industry is undergoing one of its biggest shifts in decades, driven by electric vehicles, digital technologies and changing consumer expectations. As the industry evolves, attracting a wider pool of talent is becoming less of a transformation objective and more of an economic necessity.
Addressing South Africa’s skills shortage
One of the biggest challenges facing South Africa’s automotive sector is a shortage of skilled artisans and technical professionals.
The country’s Automotive Master Plan aims to expand local vehicle production, increase employment and strengthen South Africa’s position as a manufacturing hub. Achieving these goals will require a larger and more diverse workforce.
Women represent one of the most underutilised talent pools available to the industry. According to recent artisan development statistics, women accounted for approximately 38% of artisan registrations where gender was recorded, suggesting that more women are entering technical training programmes than ever before.
The challenge now is ensuring they complete their training, secure employment and remain in the industry long enough to build successful careers.
Why this matters for the economy
The automotive industry remains one of South Africa’s most strategic economic sectors. It contributes significantly to manufacturing output, exports and employment while supporting thousands of businesses across the value chain.
Increasing female participation is therefore not only a workplace issue. It is an economic issue.
Research consistently shows that diverse workplaces tend to be more innovative, adaptable and resilient. In an industry facing technological disruption and increasing global competition, these qualities are becoming essential.
Consider how South Africa’s banking sector evolved over the past two decades. As more women entered leadership roles, institutions benefited from broader perspectives and stronger talent retention. The automotive industry appears to be following a similar path.
Progress, but work remains
Despite encouraging gains, women still account for less than one-third of the automotive retail aftermarket workforce. Representation is even lower in certain technical and executive positions.
This suggests that barriers remain, particularly around access to training opportunities, mentorship and career progression.
Industry organisations have increasingly emphasised the importance of creating pathways that allow women not only to enter the sector but to advance within it. The focus is shifting from recruitment alone towards long-term career development and leadership opportunities.
Driving into the future
The story of South Africa’s automotive industry is often told through production figures, exports and investment announcements. Yet behind those numbers are people whose skills keep the sector moving.
The fact that nearly 95,000 women are now contributing to the industry reflects more than demographic change. It signals a gradual transformation of one of South Africa’s most important economic sectors.
As the industry adapts to electric vehicles, new manufacturing technologies and changing global markets, its future competitiveness will depend on its ability to attract the best talent available. Increasingly, that talent includes women who are proving that success in the automotive sector is determined not by gender, but by skill, innovation and leadership.
For South Africa, that is not just progress. It is an economic advantage.
*Dr Iqbal Survé
Past chairman of the BRICS Business Council and co-chairman of the BRICS Media Forum and the BRNN
*Sesona Mdlokovana
Associate at BRICS+ Consulting Group
Africa Specialist
**The Views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of Independent Media or IOL.
** MORE ARTICLES ON OUR WEBSITE https://bricscg.com/ (https://bricscg.com/)
** Follow @ (https://x.com/brics_daily)brics_daily (https://x.com/brics_daily)on Twitter for daily BRICS+ updates and instagram @brics_daily (https://www.instagram.com/brics_daily?igsh=bmhvbTd0YzA4a2wx)
