IMI Skills Competition Finalists Prepare for Success at Pre-Finals Training

As the IMI Skills Competition National Finals draw closer, finalists from across the UK are taking part in two dedicated pre-finals training days designed to help them refine their skills, build confidence and familiarise themselves with the equipment and processes they will encounter in competition.

Hosted by industry partners ITAS and Car-O-Liner, the sessions offer competitors with valuable hands-on experience and expert guidance ahead of the finals.

Day One: Refinishing Competitors Sharpen Their Skills at ITAS

The first training day took place at ITAS, where finalists in the Refinishing category focused on developing their knowledge and practical application of Glasurit 100 Line paint products.

Throughout the day, competitors explored key tasks and techniques that may feature during the finals, with an emphasis on achieving high-quality results through best practice and precision. Participants were also encouraged to work closely with technical data sheets, reinforcing the importance of following manufacturer guidance and industry standards.

As part of the training, competitors also gained a greater understanding of the sustainability benefits behind the products they are using. Glasurit's AraClass forms part of an eco balance portfolio produced using the certified biomass balance method, helping to reduce CO₂ emissions and conserve fossil resources. 

Glasurit 100 Line is widely recognised as one of the most environmentally conscious waterborne basecoat systems available globally. 100 Line keeps the environment beautiful with lower emissions compared to other paint systems and is highly efficient due to extremely short flash-off times and low energy consumption

Glasurit

In addition, innovative manufacturing processes include the recycling of used tyres, which are converted into oil and used as a raw material in paint production, supporting a more circular approach to manufacturing.

Michael Strydom, Technical and Training Manager, Surventis Coating commented:

"For us at Surventis, it’s important to showcase our products and give competitors an insight into what innovation looks like, allowing them to work with the latest technologies, the most sustainable paint solutions and our digital tools, helping them develop a good understanding of the technologies shaping the industry."

The session provided competitors with the opportunity to fine-tune their spraying techniques, gain confidence in using the products and ask questions of experienced industry professionals, helping them prepare for the challenges ahead.

"Using different paints that I haven't used before was definitely challenging and it's completely opposite to what our paint schemes are like at work, but coming here today and being able to use the Glasurit paint line, has brought my confidence up and I understand what I need to do now for the finals."

Harvey Willoughby, Automotive Refinishing Finalist

Day Two: Automotive Body Repair and Automotive Technology at Car-O-Liner

The second training day was hosted by Car-O-Liner and brought together finalists from the Automotive Body Repair and Automotive Technology categories.

The group was split into two specialist sessions, allowing competitors to focus on the equipment and skills most relevant to their discipline. 

Automotive Body Repair

Automotive Body Repair finalists spent the day working with welding and jig equipment, developing their understanding of correct procedures, techniques and best practice. The session provided invaluable experience using the equipment they can expect to encounter during the finals, helping them build both familiarity and confidence. 

"Today has been all about helping finalists become familiar with the equipment and the tasks they may face during the competition. Every workshop uses different tools and systems, so it's important that competitors have the opportunity to get hands-on experience and build their confidence before the finals."

Shelby Carwardine, Technical Sales Representative, Car-O-Liner and IMI Skills Competition Judge

After reaching the IMI Skills Competition Finals last year, Body Repair finalist Tiernan has returned in 2026 determined to build on that experience and challenge for a medal. Reflecting on the opportunities the competition has provided, Tiernan explained:

"One of the biggest things I've gained from the competition is experience with equipment that I wouldn't normally use in my day-to-day work. Using the Car-O-Liner jig was something completely new to me and has helped broaden my knowledge and skill set."

Automotive Technology (Light Vehicle)

Meanwhile, Automotive Technology competitors were given the opportunity to work with the latest ADAS Tru Point Recalibration systems equipment. As vehicle technology continues to evolve, having the skills and confidence to work with advanced diagnostic and calibration systems is becoming increasingly important. 

Many of the competitors using the new Tru-Point system found it to be a valuable addition to the calibration process. Its advanced technology removes the need for a perfectly level workshop floor and eliminates the guesswork of manual measurements, making it easier to position ADAS targets with a high degree of accuracy.

Competitors commented on how straightforward and efficient the system was to use, helping them complete calibrations with greater confidence.

Paul O'Loughlin, Tutor at South West College, reflected on the progress made by his reserve competitor, Aaron, throughout his competition journey:

"Aaron's journey began three years ago when he started as an apprentice, working with his dad in a local independent garage. We sent him to the heats last year, where he learned how the competition works and where the points could be gained. He understands the system much better now, and we tailored his training around the feedback he received last year. As a result, he's taken another step forward. He finished second in his heat, which was great progress, and with one more year left to compete, he now knows the level he needs to reach to hopefully make the final next year."

Building Confidence Ahead of the Finals

Pre-finals training plays an important role in helping competitors perform at their best. Beyond developing technical skills, the sessions provide finalists with the opportunity to familiarise themselves with industry-standard equipment, learn from experts and gain a clearer understanding of the expectations of competition.

Michael Massey, IMI Skills Competitions Manager commented: 

"Reaching the National Finals is already a significant achievement, and these training days are designed to help competitors perform at their very best. By working with our industry partners and gaining hands-on experience with the latest technologies and equipment, finalists can build the confidence and skills needed to excel on competition day."

A huge thank you to Glasurit, ITAS and Car-O-Liner for supporting the next generation of automotive talent and helping our finalists prepare for the National Finals.

We look forward to seeing all competitors put their training into practice when they take to the competition floor in the coming weeks.

Find out more about the IMI Skills Competitions here.