Partner of the Year Award 2026

Celebrating Strategic Partners

Award Overview

This award recognises an individual or organisation who has made a long-term, sustainable, and positive impact on the automotive sector through their hard work and leadership. Their contribution is characterised by professionalism, high integrity, and dedication. This individual or organisation has faced numerous challenges in an ever-evolving industry, but they have adapted, embraced change, and uncovered new opportunities to drive the sector forward.

Congratulations to our shortlisted finalists:

Inspiro

Inspiro Learning

Inspiro Learning is a leading provider of automotive apprenticeships, partnering with top brands like Volkswagen, BMW, JLR, Volvo, and McLaren. With over 20 years’ expertise, they deliver technical and professional training through blended, innovative methods including AR/VR and Inspiro Vision. their 2,164 apprentices’ benefit from workplace mentors, tailored support, and nationally recognised qualifications. Committed to diversity, inclusion, and addressing the industry skills gap, we empower the next generation while supporting employer succession planning and workforce development. 

Macclesfield College

Macclesfield College 

Macclesfield College, an IMI Approved Centre, has transformed its automotive provision into a cutting-edge training hub under Lee Burton. With £500,000 invested in workshops, EV, ADAS, hydrogen, and hybrid technologies, learners gain hands-on experience with real-world systems. Achievement has risen from 67.3% to 93.8%, with 100% pass rates in 24/25. Innovative, data-driven teaching, industry-standard facilities, and strong employer partnerships ensure learners progress into apprenticeships and careers, equipping the next generation of skilled, safety-conscious automotive professionals. 

Protech

Pro-Tech MOT & Automotive Academy

Pro-Tech MOT & Automotive Academy is a leading IMI training partner, consistently advancing the IMI’s mission, standards and national impact. As the world’s first B Corp certified automotive training provider and IMI Centre, Pro-Tech delivers high-quality MOT, EV and ADAS training, with over 1,700 IMI registrations in under three years. Renowned for integrity, innovation and learner support, Pro-Tech works closely with industry, councils and the IMI to raise professionalism, safety and competence across the automotive sector. 

Events

Partner of the Year 2025 winner

Take a look at our Partner of the Year 2025 winner, Autotech Group.

Read Autotech Group's story

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