Anthony Bonaccorso, the Automotive & Engineering Training Manager at Major Training, has officially joined the Strategic Workforce Advisory Panel (SWAP) under Australian Mining and Automotive Skills Alliance (AUSMASA). This appointment gives Major Training a direct voice in how the industry develops automotive apprenticeships across the country.
Consequently, this is a major win for Anthony, the apprentices, employers, and the industry overall.
“When I got the news, I felt proud and excited,” says Anthony. “It really hit me how important this role is. I’m honoured to represent Major and be part of something that can make a real difference.”
Why This Role Matters for the Industry
With more than 30 years of experience, Anthony knows the ins and outs of real-world workshops. Furthermore, he understands exactly where apprentices often get stuck and where training sometimes misses the mark.
“We see where apprentices are struggling and where training doesn’t match what’s really going on in the workshop,” he explains. “That’s the insight I want to bring to the panel.”
By including voices like Anthony’s, the panel can effectively make decisions that work in practice.
How Apprentices Benefit
Anthony believes that having a training provider at the table supports apprentices in three specific ways:
Up-to-date feedback: “We work in workshops every day, so we can share what is happening right now.”
Spotting issues early: “We identify knowledge gaps before they become big problems.”
Practical input: “We help ensure the changes actually work in real settings.”
As a result, the training system can better reflect the skills and tools that apprentices currently use.
The Industry Is Moving Quickly
Electric vehicles and new technology are becoming the norm. Therefore, training must keep pace. Otherwise, young tradies risk falling behind.
“There’s a gap between what the industry needs and what apprentices are taught,” says Anthony. “My role on this panel is to help close that gap.”
To achieve this, he focuses on a few key areas:
Creating modern training pathways.
Building national consistency across employers and states.
Setting clearer expectations for apprentices and trainers.
Anthony’s Vision for 2027
By the end of his term in 2027, Anthony aims to achieve some big goals. These include better training materials that match the latest technology and clearer, more realistic competency requirements. Additionally, he wants to build stronger links between trainers and the industry.
“By 2027, I want apprentices to walk into training that feels current, aligned with the job, and genuinely helpful for their careers.”
Why Major Training Is Suited to the Job
Major Training was built by industry professionals. We’ve trained thousands of apprentices and built strong relationships with businesses across Queensland.
Because we’re hands-on every day, we understand exactly what works.
“We’re not just talking about what needs to change. We’re on the ground making it happen,” says Anthony.
Supporting the Next Generation of Tradies
This role shows that Major Training is not just keeping up with the industry. We’re helping to lead it.
“The goal is simple. Better training means better tradies,” says Anthony.
And with the right training in place, Australia’s next generation of mechanics will be better prepared for the future.
Congratulations, Anthony
Major is proud to see Anthony take on this leadership role. His appointment shows how important practical insight is when shaping national standards.
It also proves that Major Training is committed to delivering high-quality, relevant and future-focused training.
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