As challenging as the driver shortage is to the refrigeration transport sector, so too is the chronic lack of refrigeration technicians. Learnerships, initially punted as the answer to the skills shortage, have been more than disappointing. Apart from being an administrative nightmare, support has also been lacking. 

After six years, says industry stalwart John Ackerman at SARDA, there is still no consensus as to whether the NQF level for artisans should be at 3 or 4. Surely what is needed is a rapid and proactive effort to reintroduce proper artisan training through apprenticeships and trade tests. 

As Ackerman says, the principles of refrigeration have not changed and nor have the required basic skills needed to be a competent refrigeration technician. Unfortunately, like the motor and transport industries, there is little promotion of a worthwhile career path in refrigeration. 

The quality of applicants, who fail to complete a simple Q&A test, says Ackerman, is very disappointing and disconcerting when you realise how many skilled artisans the country needs. In addition to this bad news is the growing number of doubts being expressed about the quality and relevance of course content and competence of training providers. 

Equipment suppliers and users of refrigeration equipment need to take notice of this impending problem area that will not respond to a quick fix.