Organised by the IMI (Institute of the Motor Industry) and supported by IRTE (Institute of Road Transport Engineers), the 2015 HGV demonstrator challenge was based on the IMI’s existing automotive competitions, which cover technology, body repair and refinishing.
Five competitors were selected this year – two from Iveco and three from Volvo (both Skills Challenge sponsors), all irtec apprentices and newly qualified technicians.
Volvo supplied a tractor unit and Iveco a tipper, with competing technicians required to diagnose and repair suspension and brake system faults.
John Eastman, who chairs SOE’s (Society of Operations Engineers) IRTE professional sector council, says the Skills Show UK provides a major opportunity for attracting engineering talent and getting HGV apprenticeships on the map.
“Being involved in an event like this further reinforces IRTE as the voice of road transport engineering,” he says.
“It also represents a valuable opportunity for engineering professionals and industry representatives to see firsthand the level of expertise in heavy goods vehicles.”
Eastman confirms that the focus of this year’s HGV demonstration skills challenge event was on attracting competitors, sponsors and supporters for next year’s IRTE Skills challenge at the Skills Show UK event.
The 2016 challenge will again closely mirror the IMI’s competition streams – starting with online tests for would-be competitors, followed by in-person heats for the top 18—20 technicians in each discipline.
Six from each will then be selected for the 2016 Skills Show UK event.
Competitors will then face two days of trials in test bays equipped with engine and transmission rigs as well as electrical boards designed to mimic workshop environments.