The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has announced the winners of its 2024 IMI Skills Competitions. This year is the first that two women have become medallists, both in Refinishing, with a woman winning that category for the first time.
There were 24 top scorers across four categories: Light Vehicle Technology, Body Repair, Refinishing and Heavy Vehicle. Two returning competitors, both from Sinclair Bodyshop in Swansea, won Gold.
Azlina Bulmer, IMI MD said: “The scores this year were phenomenal, with stiff competition to get through to the final.
“Huge congratulations go to the winners who are shining examples of the talent that is emerging in the sector.
“It is vital that we continue to empower individuals by recognising their skills and showcasing their abilities to demonstrate the rewarding career opportunities the automotive sector has to offer.”
The winners in the Refinishing category were Victoria Steele – NPTC – Sinclair Bodyshop (Gold), Ben Robertson – Southern Regional College – G&H Auto Repairs (Silver), and Teagan Whiteman – Coleg Gwent – Fix Auto Newport (Bronze).
Ben Williams – Cardiff and Vale College – Aston Martin was announced as Highly Commended.
Age-eligible winners may be eligible to enter EuroSkills 2025 in Denmark and the biennial World Skills International competition in Shanghai in 2026.
Volunteer judges were Bridgewater and Taunton College, CAVC, Colleg Gwent, Redde Northgate, Pro Align, Evolution Training, Electude, Grimsby Institute, Indasa, 3M, Coleg Llandrillo, FMG RS, Zigup, LKQ, NPTC Group, Remit Training, MAN UK, Motus Commercials, Adams Morley, DAF, GTG, Bosch UK & Car-O-Liner.
The IMI Skills Competitions are sponsored by FMG Repair Services, and supported by Morelli, Glasurit, 3M, Electude, Cardiff and Vale College, City of Bristol College, Hinckley’s, Professional Diagnostics, Toyota UK.