Key industry sponsors announced for the 2010 Skillauto competitions
The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has today (19 February 2010) announced two premier sponsors for the 2010 Skillauto competitions.
The Skillauto competitions have been designed to help raise the profile of skills and vocational training in the automotive sector through searching for excellence and recognising the skills of individuals at the top of their game. Successful competitors in the UK final may then have the opportunity to compete at an international level at WorldSkills - the largest international skills competition in the world.
IMI Awards Limited and Castrol Professional have both agreed to sponsor the competitions for the current cycle which are run over three disciplines; autobody repair, car painting and light vehicle (service and maintenance). The competitions are designed to reflect the latest advancements in technology and business requirements, providing candidates with the opportunity to develop their skills further. They are also focused on the needs of industry, with those competing being able to demonstrate their skills in the areas which make the UK automotive sector synonymous with quality services and sustainable profitable businesses.
Commenting on the sponsorship Alan Mackrill, Managing Director of IMI Awards said:
"IMI Awards are keen advocates of skills competitions as it provides a platform for technicians to prove their knowledge and expertise. By IMI Awards sponsoring Skillauto competitions it is further reinforcing the belief that such events have a positive impact for both the individual and the industry"
Nigel Head, Castrol Franchised Workshop and OEM Marketing Manager - UK & Ireland, commented:
"Castrol Professional's involvement with the Skillauto competitions demonstrates our belief in the importance of professional development and ongoing training for staff, both to improve the dealership's performance and the job satisfaction of its staff.
In the current economic climate, it is vitally important that dealers have highly skilled and motivated aftersales staff in order to drive workshop traffic and customer satisfaction within their business. Such team members working in the service bay will bring more value to the business, carry out any work to a higher standard and operate more efficiently."
A number of other organisations in the sector have also kindly offered to assist with the competition process offering a range of support including the use of their facilities, donating equipment and providing judges. A full list of these organisations can be found below.
Following another record year for the number of entries received in the light vehicle category, technicians from across the country have now been invited to compete in a series of regional heats before the lucky few are selected to go through to the final.
Over 40 technicians will compete in the regional heats in the light vehicle category which are being held at seven locations across the country where they will be asked to perform 6 practical tasks assessed to UK Skills standards. Those in the autobody repair and paint categories will compete at regional heats at five locations nationwide. The final of the light vehicle competition is being held on 22-23 June at the BMW Academy in Berkshire with the finals of the body and paint categories taking place at the Thatcham Triple Focus event on 16 and 17 June.
Lesley Woolley, Head of Professional Development, who manages Skillauto activity at the IMI added:
"We are delighted that IMI Awards and Castrol Professional have given their support to the Skillauto competitions. Having this valuable industry support is vital for ensuring the ongoing success of skill competitions in our sector. The achievements of the automotive competitors at the recent WorldSkills event in Canada last year demonstrated the successes Skillauto technicians can achieve on a world stage and the record number of entries this year shows the continuing passion and commitment held by many working in today's motor industry."