The SkillAuto search for excellence begins
Outstanding automotive technicians who wish to showcase their skills can now put themselves to the test by entering the 2010 SkillAuto competition which opens today (21 October).
If you have no more than 3 years experience including training and think you are capable of competing to be the best in the UK you can take the online test. This year, for the first time technicians from across all three competition streams of AutoTech, AutoBody and AutoPaint can enter online at www.autocity.org.uk/skillauto.
Those entering the competition are requested to set up their own profile and via the website; the IMI will keep registrants updated on a wealth of other career related information.
The aim of SkillAuto is to identify and promote the exceptional talent of people working in the automotive industry, who may in turn have the opportunity to compete with the best from across the world at the prestigious WorldSkills event.
SkillAuto competitions are run, and completely supported by the automotive industry, so whether you are a student looking to showcase your talent, an apprentice wanting to show your colleagues what you are made of, an employer who wants to inspire confidence in a talented technician, or a training provider or college that wants to encourage their students to be the best they can, the competitions offer everyone the chance to succeed.
These competitions are designed to test competence and recognise excellence in the application of the latest advancements in technology providing candidates with the opportunity to develop their skills further. The competitions are also focused on the needs of industry, with those competing to demonstrate their skills in the areas which make the UK automotive sector synonymous with quality services and sustainable profitable businesses.
From those who apply online, the top scorers will be taken through to a number of regional heats taking place at colleges across the UK, with the culmination of the competition at the prestigious UK final.
Sarah Whiteside-Jones, Professional Recognition Manager, who manages SkillAuto activity at the IMI said:
"Skills competitions promote excellence in both the workplace and vocational training, and provide the opportunity to showcase the talent the automotive industry has to offer. SkillAuto helps to build confidence and ambition of the technicians who take part and many employers have reported a positive change in those returning from competition which contributes to a higher quality and more efficient workforce."
If you think you or your business can add value to these competitions, or have any ideas as to how you can incorporate this initiative in to your business, please get in touch. The competitions are fully supported by the industry, and are reliant on donations in the form of host centres, venues, judges, prizes, equipment and any thing else that can help enhance the competitions, and the competitors experience.
If you think you can contribute, please contact the IMI on 01992 511521 or email [email protected]
The IMI are also delighted to announce that they have received a nomination for the 'WorldSkills UK Partner of the Year.' This nomination is only available to 'outstanding' competition partners who have exceeded the requirements of UK Skills quality criteria. The winner of this award will be announced at the WorldSkills UK Awards Ceremony on 4th November at London's IMAX.
Commenting on the nomination, Lesley Woolley, Head of Professional Development at the IMI said:
"We would like to thank everyone who help to make the SkillAuto competitions possible. SkillAuto could not have achieved this nomination without the efforts and commitment from all of those involved. Through our association with UK Skills, the competition continues to highlight the high-level of skill needed to work in today's automotive sector."