The UK's most talented heavy vehicle apprentices gather at the DAF Apprentice Academy for the IMI Skills Competition Heavy Vehicle Technology National Final, where finalists put their knowledge, technical ability, and problem-solving skills to the test in a series of challenging assessments.
Throughout the day, competitors will complete tasks covering vehicle inspection, mechanical repair, chassis and transmission diagnosis, engine fault diagnosis, and electrical fault finding, demonstrating both their technical expertise and ability to perform under pressure.
Having secured their place through the National Qualifiers earlier this year, competitors from across the country have come together for one final opportunity to demonstrate the skills that set them apart from their peers.
Showcasing the Best of Emerging Talent
The National Final highlights the exceptional calibre of talent currently progressing through heavy vehicle apprenticeship programmes across the UK.
Competing at this level requires determination, dedication, and a commitment to continuous learning, with each finalist demonstrating the skills and professionalism needed to succeed in the industry.
The competition also provides participants with a valuable opportunity to benchmark themselves against some of the country's most talented apprentices, while gaining experience that will support their future careers.
Supporting the Future of the Heavy Vehicle Sector
The IMI Heavy Vehicle Technology Skills Competition continues to play an important role in celebrating excellence and raising the profile of careers within the automotive sector.
By bringing together apprentices, employers, training providers, and industry experts, the competition showcases the opportunities available within heavy vehicle technology while helping to inspire the next generation of technicians.
This year's final also demonstrates the strong commitment across the sector to developing future talent and equipping apprentices with the skills needed to support an evolving industry.
Andy Webb, Scania Apprenticeship Programme Manager, said:
"Competitions like the IMI Skills Competition are a fantastic opportunity for apprentices to demonstrate their skills, but also a wider opportunity for the industry to show how advanced we are and attract new talent in the future."
Exhibitors and Industry Support
Alongside the competition, finalists and attendees have the opportunity to engage with a range of industry exhibitors and partners who are helping to shape the future of automotive skills and training.
This year, Milwaukee Tool and Tenstar Simulation are exhibiting at the event, showcasing the latest innovations in professional tooling and immersive training technology. Their presence provides valuable insight into the tools, equipment and technologies that are transforming the modern workshop and helping prepare the next generation of technicians for successful careers in the sector.
Competitors will also hear from Jamie-Lea Hawley, who joins the National Final Medal Ceremony as guest speaker, sharing her experiences and insights on career development, resilience and opportunities within the automotive industry.
The event also welcomes Ben, the automotive industry's dedicated charity, who are raising awareness of the health and wellbeing support available to automotive professionals and apprentices throughout their careers.
Thank You
The IMI would like to thank DAF Apprentice Academy for hosting the National Final, as well as the employers, training providers, judges, and volunteers whose support helps make the event possible.
Congratulations to all finalists for reaching this stage of the competition and for representing the very best of emerging talent within the heavy vehicle sector.
Find out more about the IMI Skills Competitions here.
Be sure to revisit this page throughout the day, as we’ll continue to add the latest updates as they happen.
