Meet Romeo Beeby, IMI Heavy Vehicle Technology 2026 Finalist

For many aspiring technicians, qualifying to compete in the IMI Skills Competition Finals is a career-defining achievement. For Romeo Beeby of Scania dealer group Keltruck, it represents the culmination of three years of hard work, commitment, and dedication to his apprenticeship.

Romeo, based at Keltruck's Groby depot near Leicester, earned his place among the UK's top heavy vehicle apprentices after impressing throughout the competition stages. His journey into the industry is exactly the kind of success story employers hope to see when developing the next generation of technicians.

According to Rob Powell, Head of Resource Development at Keltruck, Romeo has been an outstanding apprentice from day one.

"He joined us three years ago and has been absolutely no trouble throughout his apprenticeship. He's come fresh into the industry, worked hard, turned up every day ready to learn, and done exactly what we ask of our apprentices."

Flying the Flag for Keltruck and Scania

Reaching the national finals is a significant achievement for any apprentice, but it is also a moment of pride for the employer that has supported them along the way.

For Keltruck, having one of its apprentices competing on a national stage demonstrates the strength of its apprenticeship programme and investment in future talent.

"We're immensely proud of Romeo's achievements. We want him to fly the flag, do as well as he can, and set an example for anyone else who wants to follow the same path."

The competition offers more than just a chance to test technical skills. It provides apprentices with the opportunity to benchmark themselves against the very best in the industry while gaining valuable experience in a high-pressure environment.

Why Skills Competitions Matter

For major commercial vehicle brands and dealer networks, competitions such as the IMI Skills Competition provide a unique opportunity to showcase and develop emerging talent.

Unlike internal assessments, the finals bring together apprentices from across the industry, representing leading manufacturers and dealer groups.

"It's the only true opportunity we get to pitch our apprentices against the rest of the industry. We want to be competitive. We want our people to do well because this is the pinnacle for an apprentice."

The event allows participants to test themselves against peers from across the heavy vehicle sector, while employers gain valuable insight into the skills and standards being demonstrated throughout the industry.

For premium brands such as Scania, investing in competitions is a natural extension of their commitment to excellence.

"We see ourselves as a premium brand, and that means having premium people working on premium vehicles and providing premium customer service. Recognising the importance of technicians and supporting them to attend events like this is a reflection of that commitment."

Inspiring the Next Generation

Beyond the competition itself, events like these play an important role in changing perceptions of the automotive and commercial vehicle industries.

Modern vehicle maintenance requires highly skilled technicians who work with advanced diagnostics, connected technologies, alternative fuels, and increasingly complex systems. The career opportunities available today extend far beyond traditional stereotypes.

Reflecting on the wider impact of the competition, Rob offered a message to young people considering a career in the sector:

"I hope this competition shows that you can achieve great things in this industry. You can build a fantastic career, no matter what brand you're working for, and the sky's the limit. This industry has so much potential. It can help you become the best technician in your workshop, your garage, or your network, but it can also open doors to many other opportunities throughout your career."

Rob Powell, Head of Resource Development, Keltruck

A Career Built on Opportunity

Romeo's success highlights what can be achieved through dedication, employer support, and a commitment to continuous learning.

His journey serves as a reminder that the automotive sector continues to offer rewarding, challenging, and future-focused careers for the next generation of technicians.

Discover more about the IMI Heavy Vehicle Technology Skills Competition.