The Skill Auto judges are our unsung hero’s of the competition, not only do they give their time to judge at the National Qualifiers and the finals, their passion is what drives the next generation to enter the industry.
We caught up with Richard Hutchins – Lead Judge for Refinishing to find out what its really like to be involved in the Skill Auto competitions, here’s his take on the role –
How did you get involved in the judging for Skill Auto?
“I first got involved with the Judging 1n 2011 when the college I was working in held Welsh heats for the body repair competition.”
What is the best part of the job?
“The best part of my job as Lead Refinishing Judge is being able to give something back to the industry. Passing on the ‘skills of the trade’ to a new generation of automotive engineers is very rewarding. Also watching the way that the competitors grow both in skills and confidence from the national qualifiers through to the final and knowing that you have played a small part in that person’s development is just great.”
Why do you encourage students and apprentices to get involved?
“I feel that Skills Competitions are a great way to improve an apprentice’s confidence and motivation, it also improves/enhances the skills and knowledge in their chosen skill and the competition helps and individual to strive for excellence.
All of this makes a more efficient more employable person for a dynamic fast-paced industry”
Huge thank you to Richard for answering our questions.
If you want some more information on the competition this can be found at http://www.theimi.org.uk/landing/skillauto/
The Skill Auto Team
skillauto@theimi.org.uk