Apr 29, 2026 SpannerTorque Festivals, Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), Dewald Ranft,
SpannerTorque Festivals spark skills and inspire the next generation of artisans
With the final two SpannerTorque Festivals wrapped up in Pretoria and KwaZulu-Natal this month, the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA) is celebrating the success of a nationwide initiative that has delivered meaningful value to independent workshops across five provinces.
MIWA’s two-day SpannerTorque Festivals have provided exactly what members need in a rapidly evolving automotive environment - practical, hands-on technical learning, direct supplier engagement, and the opportunity to connect with fellow workshop owners and technicians facing similar challenges.
Each regional event has been supported by leading SpannerTorque suppliers, offering targeted training and insights tailored to current vehicle technologies and workshop demands. From diagnostics to new system developments, the sessions have equipped attendees with the knowledge needed to stay competitive and future-ready. “A standout highlight of this year’s programme has been the strong focus on youth development. Learners from Project Dineo, as well as various technical schools in each region, were invited to attend the training days. Their engagement and curiosity were evident, with many asking insightful and relevant questions. This is a clear indication of the potential within the next generation of artisans,” says Dewald Ranft, Chairman of MIWA, a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI).
Ranft says this is exactly how we build a sustainable future for the sector. “The pace of change in the automotive industry is accelerating, and workshops need to stay informed, skilled and adaptable. The SpannerTorque Festivals are about equipping our members with the knowledge and confidence to work on increasingly complex vehicles, including electric and hybrid vehicles, while also opening the door for young people to see the opportunities this industry offers.”
The reality is South Africa’s technical trades are quietly facing a crisis. The backbone of our automotive and transport sectors - mechanics, electricians, and panel beaters - are ageing fast, with the average artisan now over 50. At the same time, too few young people are stepping in to replace them. “If we look specifically at motor mechanics we see they are ageing out faster than we are training new ones. We don’t have a youth problem - we have a conversion problem,” says Ranft.
Ranft says exposing young talent to the sector is just as important as upskilling current professionals. “Many young people are simply not aware of the dynamic and rewarding careers available in the automotive aftermarket. By bringing them into this environment, allowing them to engage with professionals and see the technology firsthand, we are planting the seeds for the future workforce our industry so urgently needs.”
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