The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has taken on responsibility for SkillAuto, which identifies and supports entrants in competitions aimed at those at the start of their automotive careers.

Lesley Woolley, IMI head of professional development, said: “By adding SkillAuto to our plans to make a career in our sector highly attractive, we will be highlighting the world class skill levels at which individuals now need to work at in the sector, re-enforcing their status as professional engineers and delivering long overdue status and respect.”

SkillAuto competitions cover light and heavy vehicle servicing, as well as vehicle body repair and painting. They are designed to reflect the latest advancements in technology and business requirements, providing candidates with the opportunity to develop their skills further.

Candidates for the 2009 Worldskills in Canada are in the process of being selected through a series of regional heats, the finals of which take place at Thatcham in June, after which the focus will turn to the competition in London in 2011, which will precede the hosting of the Olympic Games in 2012.

In 2005, Andrew Blair won a gold medal in autobody repair in Helsinki, and last year, Jonathan Lloyd and Simon Noble each scooped a bronze medal in autobody repair and vehicle painting, respectively, in Japan, competing against finalists from 48 countries.