New enrolments in MITO on-job training programmes have increased 23% compared with the same period last year, bucking a wider decline in on-job learner numbers across New Zealand.
The increase covers programmes in the automotive, commercial road transport, extractives, drilling, gas and logistics sectors.
MITO says enrolments are expected to continue growing as its industries face significant demand for workers.
“Enrolments are expected to continue increasing with 47,400 job openings anticipated in MITO’s industries between 2027 and 2032,” MITO says.
The forecast, based on Infometrics Sector Profiles data, includes almost 16,600 job openings in commercial road transport and nearly 15,800 in automotive. Together, the two sectors are expected to account for 68% of job openings across MITO industries.
Commercial road transport training has recorded particularly strong growth, with enrolments up 129% on 2025 levels.
“The commercial road transport industry, which is faced with an ageing workforce, experiences consistent demand for skilled drivers,” MITO says.
Growth in electric and hybrid vehicle uptake is also being reflected in automotive training, with enrolments in MITO’s electric vehicle programmes increasing between 60% and 70% year-on-year.
MITO says it continues to have nationwide employer and learner coverage, with strong training participation across regional areas as well as larger urban centres.
