The IRTE Bus & Coach Skills Challenge is back for its 12th anniversary and is set to revolutionise the industry by challenging the status quo and shaping the future of talent within engineering.

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The Skills Challenge, a one of a kind in the road transport sector, is a national competition where ambitious PSV engineers, technicians and apprentices from across the bus and coach sector meet at the S&B Automotive Academy in Bristol and put their skills to the test in a variety of challenges.

This year's theme, "Challenging the Status Quo," embodies IRTE's commitment to driving innovation, workforce excellence, and empowering the next generation of bus and coach technicians.

Since its origin, the Skills Challenge, organised by the Institute of Road Transport Engineers (IRTE) in partnership with S&B Automotive Academy, has witnessed over 650 aspiring technicians take part, providing them with a platform to test their skills across electrical, mechanical and bodyworks, push their limits, and rise to the challenge.

The Skills Challenge is set to take on a groundbreaking new dimension with the introduction of a new optional category featuring new technology. This innovative addition will allow competitors to embrace the future of transportation, gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge innovations, and showcase their adaptability in a rapidly evolving industry.

The IRTE Skills challenge is focusing on existing and future technologies. We want to show the development of skills within the industry and the high levels that are attainable. The skills challenge has not forgotten about safety and the everyday skills that technicians and body repairers need for the industry, but we will also be adding in a new category for those people who have more experience in the advancing technologies side of the business. This will encompass the whole range of new fuels and propulsion systems within the Bus and Coach and so will test further the advancing skill levels in the industry. 

Richard Belton
Operations Director, S&B Automotive Academy


The competition is open to operators of all sizes with everyone welcome. Last year saw entries from some of the leading operators such as Arriva, First Bus and Go Ahead alongside regional companies Lothian and Trentbarton. The Skills Challenge showcases talent from the length and breadth of the sector.

IRTE's commitment to challenging the status quo extends beyond the Skills Challenge, with its pioneering irtec and Workshop accreditation schemes recognised as industry standards. These initiatives set the benchmark for excellence in bus and coach technical expertise, ensuring that the industry is equipped with the most skilled and competent professionals.

The IRTE Skills Challenge isn't just celebrating excellence, it's redefining it. By challenging the status quo and embracing new technologies, we're not just testing skills, we're empowering the next generation to thrive in an environment where innovation and alternative fuels to power public transport will become essential.

Oliver Teasell
Membership & Registration Manager, The Society of Operations Engineers


The competition this year will be a unique coming together of new technology, engineers, technicians and apprentices and industry-leading suppliers – showcasing the strength and sustainability of the sector.

Through its dedication to cutting-edge technology, championing skilled technicians and engineers, and nurturing future talent, IRTE is leading the charge in bus and coach advancements, paving the way for a safe, secure, eco-friendly, and inclusive transportation landscape for generations. 

Entries are now open for the IRTE Bus & Coach Skills Challenge 2024.

Click here to learn more

About the Skills Challenge

 

Media contact information:
Chris Knight
Editor & PR Coordinator
Society of Operations Engineers
christopher.knight@soe.org.uk
 

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