Daniel Morris' Journey to the IMI Skills Competition Finals

After more than a decade as a dairy farmer, Daniel took a leap into a completely new career, and it’s already brought him to the Skills Competition National Finals. Now completing an IMI Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair, discover his journey and hear insights from his employer, Northgate Vehicle Hire.

Can you tell us about your career journey? What inspired you to join the automotive industry?

My career journey has been just that, a journey! I spent the past 11 years of my working life as a dairy farmer, which I enjoyed; however, it left very little for work/life balance, so about 4 years ago, I decided it's time for a change. I joined Northgate Vehicle Hire when an opportunity to join the administration team opened, to which I applied and got the role. Within about 3 months of starting the role, I got offered the chance to take the parts controller role, which I feel I thrived in, having a basic underlying knowledge of vehicle parts from my agricultural background. When the apprentice programme opened in Blaydon, I didn't hesitate to apply, knowing I would be a good fit for the team and the job.

Have you faced any challenges on your journey, and how have you overcome them?

Since starting the apprenticeship, I have faced a few challenges; however, the hardest to overcome has been completely self-inflicted, as just over a year ago, my wife and I had a little son! Which has been amazing, but has made focusing on work and studying much harder! Despite the challenges I have faced, I feel I have thrived in this role and look forward to taking on any future challenges!

How would you describe your competition experience so far?

My competition experience so far has been absolutely incredible! When I was first told about the competition, I didn't believe I would be able to say that I am a WorldSkills UK finalist! I have thoroughly enjoyed the competition, and have enjoyed all the extra training and masterclasses this has afforded me, working with equipment I don't have access to in my workplace!

How do you think the competition will help you with your career?

I think the completion will set me up nicely for my future career. With all the training I have received and the confidence I have gained in my work, I feel I will be able to thrive in the industry!

How would you describe your competitor?

Daniel Morris is a pleasure to have in our workshop. In the time I have known Dan, he started as a Parts controller, where he excelled in every aspect. When Dan showed interest in the apprentice scheme, I was excited to see the same capable individual turn his hand to new skills.

He has covered various roles within the workshop when we had sickness or absence. Dan is always on hand, covering Workshop controller roles, etc. Dan has had a huge impact on our workshop. I often see colleagues asking Dan for advice on vehicle repairs as well as system knowledge.

His work ethic is second to none. Whenever we hit busy periods, Dan will always complete to a good standard and ahead of the allocated time. He will then make himself available for other work to the workshop controller, always going above and beyond. On the rare occasion we are quiet, you will often see Dan tidying and cleaning the workshop.

Phil Johns, Workshop Manager, Blaydon

Dan has a very bright future in the industry, and I am confident he will succeed in any given task or role.

What does it mean for your organisation to have a finalist in the competition?

Dan is the first ever Northgate candidate to reach the WorldSkills UK final, and being a finalist is an incredible achievement for both him and our organisation.

We are immensely proud of Dan getting to this stage in the competition, as it recognises and showcases his commitment to high standards of work and Northgate's commitment to training and development support.

Steve Coble, UK Head of Workshop Operations

It also reflects positively on the quality of Dan's mentorship within the workshop environment and the support provided by his branch. Without all of these teams collaborating, embodying our culture, this wouldn’t have been able to happen.

How do you support and develop young talent within your organisation?

For over a decade, we have had a strong and successful technician apprenticeship scheme at Northgate Vehicle Hire. We collaborate with several different manufacturers and training providers year on year to introduce new talent to the industry.

Upon completion of an apprenticeship, career progression doesn’t stop.

Further education, new accreditations and industry CPD are provided by our own IMI-accredited training centre. We also provide training and development opportunities to the rest of our business(s), ensuring new young talent is supported and encouraged effectively.

Jonny Chadwick, Technical Trainer

How do you see the skills needs of the automotive industry changing over the next few years?

It has been said countless times before, and it's no secret that the automotive industry is rapidly transforming due to electrification, automation, and technologies such as ADAS. As a result, although still incredibly important, traditional mechanical skills are no longer enough to keep driving the automotive industry forward.

In my opinion, traditional mechanical knowledge and skills will always be required, at the very least, to serve as a strong foundation to build new knowledge and specific niches from. Those niches will be down to the individual or business needs/requirements.

Skill gaps will always be a factor to keep a close eye on; it's almost inevitable that roles and skillsets will be required to change to keep up with the pace of the industry, this is for both in practical skills and the implementation of softer skills. New technology knowledge, specific skills and general CPD are and will always be available via manufacturers or industry training providers, but having a culture that encourages and supports training and development will make those changes a little easier.

What advice would you give to other employers/colleges looking to get involved in the competition?

Being able to showcase and demonstrate the skill sets required in this industry, either as a participant or supporter, is an absolute must to ensure this industry is represented in the correct way. It helps remove the preconceptions that this industry suffers from and increases our credibility as individuals or a business.

Since we have been involved with such competitions, it has given us a platform to allow recognition and rewards to be given to the outstanding individuals within our business on a national stage, which has had a positive impact on morale and attraction. Being able to share this culture with our customer network further strengthens relationships and demonstrates that we are a reputable outfit. On top of this, the collaboration opportunities that become available are priceless.

Find out more about the IMI Skills Competition.