IMI Skills Competition Refinishing Masterclass

Ahead of the IMI Skills Competition National Finals this November, finalists in the Refinishing category took part in a hands-on masterclass hosted by ITAS and delivered by Glasurit and BASF. The session gave competitors the chance to refine their techniques, strengthen their confidence, and experience the tools and conditions they’ll encounter at the finals.

Precision in Practice

At the heart of the day was a practical training session designed to replicate the competition environment. Competitors rotated through a series of refinishing tasks to practice application techniques and further develop their product knowledge of the Glasurit system — one of the greenest and most sustainable basecoats on the market.

By the end of the session, competitors left better prepared for the pressures of competition and more confident in their ability to perform to professional standards.

Developing Skills for the Future

The masterclass provided a valuable opportunity for competitors to engage with industry experts and gain insight into the latest refinishing techniques and materials. Training alongside their peers fostered teamwork and friendly competition, while hands-on coaching reinforced the precision and discipline expected at national level.

Tom Crabtree, Sales & Operations Manager, BASF UK commented:

"In 2025, BASF Coatings renewed its partnership with WorldSkills. We have raised the bar with Glasurit 100 Line, setting new standards for sustainable skill development required by the industry. Through our partnership with WorldSkills and vocational training institutions, we are proud to support young talent, attract new professionals to the exciting world of automotive refinish, and foster a collaborative mindset for a more sustainable future. Together, we are building a more diverse and highly skilled workforce to lead the future of collision repair.”

Daryl Head, Senior Painter at FMGRS and Refinishing Lead Judge noted:

“The competition provides a credible platform for technicians to showcase their refinishing skills and knowledge whilst using advanced tools, materials, and modern-day application processes. The masterclass is a great opportunity for the competitors to continuously improve, build confidence whilst diving deeper into the latest refinishing technologies. I’m looking forward to seeing how the finalists apply what they’ve learned at the WorldSkills UK Finals in Cardiff this November.”

Danny Rota, CEO of ITAS added: 

"It was great to host these young talented technicians at ITAS this week. The core of our business is encouraging the correct repair method backed up with specific training programmes and this initiative from the IMI aligns with our business ethos and morals. We wish all the candidates well with the remainder of the finals."

"I’ve never used UV paint before, so it was really helpful to get hands-on experience with that. The techniques we learned today are quite different from what I usually do, it’s a lot more delicate and requires working on a smaller area of the panel, so it was great practice and a chance to refine my skills"

Aaron Saxton, Remit Training, FMG Repair Services, Refinishing Finalist

Final Preparations Underway

With another successful masterclass complete, the competitors’ attention now turns to the IMI Skills Competition National Finals at Cardiff and Vale College this November. 

There, the finalists will put their knowledge and skill to the test, showcasing not only their technical ability but the dedication, adaptability, and professionalism developed through experiences like the masterclass at ITAS.

The time is now to equip the next generation of automotive refinishers with the skills and confidence needed to lead the industry forward.

To find out more about the IMI Skills Competition, please click here.