The Institute of Road Transport Engineers (IRTE) has opened registration for its annual Skills Challenge, which takes place on 1-5 June at S&B Academy in Bristol.
Championing the vital work done by bus and coach technicians throughout the UK and Ireland, the event invites operators large and small to test their technicians against each other in a bid to discover the best in the business.
The competition has been going since 2011 and recognises the unsung heroes who keep buses and coaches working day and night.
Testing mechanical, electrical and bodywork technicians, the challenge includes theoretical and practical assessments. With a big focus on safety and reliability, this approach aims to provide an invaluable opportunity to raise standards across the industry.
Operators taking part will have the skills and expertise of their technicians recognised and measured against their competitors. Top teams and individuals will have the opportunity to win a wide array of prizes, including a year’s free membership of IRTE.
Paul Lenihan of Tower Transit, the Top Scoring Bodywork Technician in 2014, says, “This award not only highlighted my skills as a coachbuilder, but represents the dedication and teamwork of my fellow teammates and managers.”
Lloyd Mason, Engineering Development Manager at Arriva UK Bus, adds, “The event is a real confidence booster and confirmation for those taking part that they are doing something right. As more operators participate each year it is especially rewarding for these engineers to come out on top, proving they are the best in their discipline.”
Bus and coach operators are invited to enter teams of three technicians/apprentices by 27 March, and the winners will be announced at an award ceremony in July.
The IRTE Skills Challenge is sponsored by Allison Transmission, Bridgestone, Knorr-Bremse and Shell. Entry to the competition is free and operators can complete the registration form at www.soe.org.uk/irteskills.
