Brazil's vehicle transport industry launches training programs to address skilled labor shortage

The Brazilian vehicle transport sector is confronting a sharp shortage of qualified workers. In Mato Grosso, the fleet of heavy vehicles reached about 365,700 units and grew by roughly 50,000 registrations from January to May, creating high demand for technical services. The National Industrial Learning Service (Senai) offers courses such as vehicular electrician, motorcycle electromechanics and automotive maintenance, and has partnered with Scania distributor Rota Oeste on the “Rota do Futuro” initiative to train 20 students for heavy‑vehicle mechanics.

Nationally, the transport‑of‑vehicles segment—known as “cegonheiros”—faces an aging workforce, with an average driver age of 46 and over a third aged 50 or more. A recent survey showed 86% of drivers with children do not expect their offspring to follow the profession. To counter the gap, the Sindicato Nacional dos Cegonheiros (Sinaceg) launched a 2025 program to train young cegonheiros and is promoting the 26th Expo de Transportes (Feira dos Cegonheiros) scheduled for 24‑26 September in São Bernardo do Campo. The expo will highlight the need for specialized skills to handle electrified and hybrid vehicles, secure cargo, and prevent high‑value damages.