Ryan FowlerVolvo Trucks has published research examining how women and ethnic minorities perceive careers linked to zero tailpipe-emission trucks, buses and coaches.
The study, carried out by DJS Research across Scotland and the North of England, explored how under-represented groups view the heavy-duty vehicle sector and what factors may discourage them from considering careers within it.
Funded through Transport Scotland’s Skills Challenge Fund for HDV Decarbonisation, the research involved focus groups and interviews examining awareness of the sector, recruitment perceptions and career priorities.
Amy Stokes, decarbonisation director at Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland, said: “For too long recruitment in this sector has been hindered by a less diverse applicant pool, making it harder to build an inclusive workforce.
“This is a crucial topic the industry needs to address, because misconceptions, particularly among women and ethnic minorities, risk narrowing the talent pool at a time when we need to attract and retain a broader range of talent than ever.”
The research found that awareness of the sector remains low outside the industry, with many participants struggling to identify career pathways linked to zero-emission commercial vehicles despite developments in battery-electric, hydrogen and fuel cell technologies.
Participants also associated the sector with physically demanding, male-dominated workshop environments and found some technical language and recruitment messaging inaccessible.
However, the study found attitudes became more positive when roles were framed around sustainability, innovation and future technologies.
Karen Bailey, head of competence development at Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland, said: “The findings have made one thing very clear: the shift to a zero tailpipe-emission HDV sector represents a significant opportunity to attract a broader and more diverse workforce.
“At Volvo Trucks we are well positioned to lead this change – but it’s a bigger challenge than any one manufacturer can accomplish alone.
“Our task as an industry is to build clearer pathways into the sector, supported by communication that empowers people from all backgrounds to see themselves within our respective businesses.”
The research also highlighted the importance of work-life balance, transparency, career progression and inclusive workplace culture for jobseekers.
Volvo Trucks said the findings will help shape future recruitment, training and early careers engagement programmes as part of Volvo Group’s wider target of reaching 35% women employees by 2030.
Bailey added: “If the wider industry adopts a similar approach, and combines this with transparency, structured routes for career progression, and a culture that actively values difference, then it should leave the door open to a far wider array of talent.”
