The purpose of this study is to investigate work-based learning practices in automotive training programs and whether they meet workplace needs, as established through an employer view in the Malaysian automotive industry. Rapid changes in technology and markets have created new demands for vocational education and training organizations to provide graduates who are globally competitive. Debates about the most appropriate forms of training to meet these demands are concerned not only with curricula and resources within TVE organizations, but also with the most effective strategies for improving collaboration with industry. Work-based learning (WBL) is a "different approach than the traditional teaching and learning method in the classroom-the learning process direct to the workplace learning environment (2011, p. 4)." This paper looks at employers' perspective on collaboration between training institutes and the automotive industry. These stakeholders include training partners and employers collaborating in a work-based learning program for students taking a diploma in automotive engineering. The sample for the study involved a total of five employers from the automotive industry. Using semi-structured interviews, stakeholders' evaluations of the WBL program are analyzed. The data generated represent a comprehensive review through a case study approach. These data were analyzed and sorted using the NVivo software for interview transcripts. The findings provide insight into employers' views of a variety of needs that are commensurate to developing a technician-level labor force. The key issues include the updating of training facilities, the relevance of curriculum content, technological advancement in the automotive industry, and collaboration between educational institutions and the automotive industry. In general, respondents praised the WBL program for increasing students' knowledge of technology changes and enhancing their skills with equipment and tools, working procedures and techniques, and customer service. This article suggests that the WBL program may be utilized in preparing students for the workplace in certain courses at local training institutions and, with modifications, in a variety of training programs in Malaysia.
