IMI Heavy Vehicle Technology National Qualifiers Begin at Renault Trucks Academy

The IMI Skills Competition Heavy Vehicle Technology National Qualifiers are set to take place over three action-packed days at the Renault Trucks Academy in Leicester, bringing together some of the most talented learners and apprentices from across the UK.

Over the course of the event, 18 competitors will put their skills to the test, with six participants competing each day across six challenging practical tasks. Covering Electrical Systems, Engine Mechanical, Braking Systems, Transmission, Body Electrical and Engine Electrical, the qualifiers are designed to assess the knowledge, precision and problem-solving abilities required of today's heavy vehicle technicians.

The qualifier event also marks a significant milestone for the competition. This is the first independently delivered IMI Heavy Vehicle Technology Skills Competition since the discipline was removed from the WorldSkills UK competition portfolio last year. The IMI's commitment to continuing the competition ensures that aspiring heavy vehicle technicians still have access to a national platform that supports skills development, industry recognition and career progression.

Focused on learners and apprentices, the IMI Skills Competition is about more than identifying top talent. It provides participants with invaluable experience, helping them develop confidence, technical expertise and employability skills that will support successful careers within the commercial vehicle sector.

Day One

The first day of competition saw six learners and apprentices arrive at the Renault Trucks Academy ready to demonstrate their technical abilities.

Following a welcome briefing and introduction to the day's activities, competitors rotated through six practical assessment stations, each designed to replicate real-world workshop scenarios. From diagnosing electrical faults to carrying out mechanical inspections and working safely around high-voltage systems, participants were challenged to apply their skills in a fast-paced and professional environment.

The standard of work on display highlighted the quality of talent emerging from training providers and employers across the UK, with competitors demonstrating excellent attention to detail, technical knowledge and professionalism throughout the day. 

One of the standout moments of day one has been witnessing the level of support from across the industry. It’s been great to see competitors' tutors attending the event and backing their learners every step of the way. The atmosphere has been incredibly positive, demonstrating how the heavy vehicle community comes together to support and inspire future talent.

"We are thrilled to be part of this competition from its inception. We are really keen to give technicians an opportunity to showcase their skills, and the hard work they have put into their careers so far. Good luck to everyone competing."

Mandla Ndhlovu, Technical & Apprentice Academy Manager, Renault Trucks UK & Ireland

Day Two

Day two of the IMI Skills Competition Heavy Vehicle Technology National Qualifiers welcomed six Scania apprentices and learners to the Renault Trucks Academy, each eager to put their skills to the test across the six technical disciplines.

Each task challenged participants to demonstrate their technical knowledge, diagnostic thinking, attention to detail and ability to work under pressure.

The standard of competition remained exceptionally high throughout the day, with competitors tackling complex faults and demonstrating the competencies required of today's heavy vehicle technicians.

“We are incredibly proud of Romeo and Ummar in competing in the competition. A great achievement, one that will resonate in their future careers and other Apprentices should aspire to.”

Rob Powell, Head of Resource Development, Keltruck Limited

Michael Massey IMI Skills Competitions Manager commented:

After just two days it has been fantastic to see some of the UK's top apprentices compete for a place in the National Finals this September. The standard throughout has been incredibly high, and I'm immensely proud to have been part of delivering this event. It has taken a mammoth effort from a brilliant team, and seeing it come together has been a real career highlight. Looking forward to the final day tomorrow!

Day Three

The final day of the Heavy Vehicle Technology National Qualifiers saw the last group of competitors arrive, with apprentices representing DAF making up much of the field alongside several independent entrants. 

"I first met Arseni when he was working as a loader, and his dedication and work ethic immediately stood out. When a mechanic position became available, he was my first choice. Four years on, he's now completing his Heavy Vehicle apprenticeship and has earned his place among the top 18 competitors in the country. I'm incredibly proud of him and everything he has achieved."

Shayne Dunt, Workshop Supervisor, FCC Environment

As the final tasks were completed and scores submitted, the 2026 National Qualifiers came to a close.

Across all three days, competitors demonstrated the dedication, capability and enthusiasm that will help drive the future of the heavy vehicle industry, with the highest-performing apprentices now progressing to the National Finals in September.

The Podium Finishers

We are proud to recognise the outstanding performers who came first, second, and third across each day of competition:

First Place	Second Place	Third Place
Cai Williams	Jayden Fossett	Adam Badger
Romeo Beeby	Charlie Gildea	Jakub Kusiak
Monty Gambrell	Arseni Delchev	Theo Lanham

Thank you to our judges and industry partners, we would not be able to deliver events like this without your support.