Delphi Academy’s advanced training facility in Warwick recently hosted the IMI Skills Competition heats for both heavy and light vehicle technology, held from 19 – 23rd May.
This week-long event showcased emerging talent from across the UK. David Guilfoyle, Delphi Academy’s technical trainer, served as a judge in the light vehicle category.
The IMI Skills Competitions aim to identify and celebrate top new technicians, playing a crucial role in raising industry standards. Lead judge, David Walker, commented, “The IMI World Skills Competition is like the Olympics of our industry. It brings together the best young talent from across the UK to compete in a series of demanding technical challenges.” Participants tackled 45-minute workshop tasks covering electrics, brakes, and high voltage.
Delphi Academy’s £500,000 expansion in 2024 cemented its status as one of Europe’s most advanced automotive training centres. Now spanning 1,430 square metres, the facility can train up to 64 students daily, featuring a dedicated wing for hybrid, EV, and hydrogen technologies. With 15 training vehicles and OEM-level resources, the site is an ideal environment for elite competitions.
Luke Garratt, UK Technical Services Manager at Delphi, said, “It was a real privilege to accommodate IMI Skills Competition qualifiers. Seeing so many passionate young technicians putting their skills to the test was genuinely inspiring.” Sarah Sparkes, Head of Marketing and Communications at the IMI, noted, “The IMI is committed to nurturing the next generation of automotive talent, and what better way than through initiatives like the IMI Skills Competition, which celebrate technical excellence and ambition.” She added that such initiatives offer clear career pathways and reinforce the IMI’s mission.
Following these heats, Delphi Academy will host the semi-finals and finals of the Top Technician competition later this year, alongside the new Top Apprentice competition. These events further establish Delphi Academy’s status as a hub for high-level skills development in the independent aftermarket.
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