Putting Isuzu Trucks’ Best to the Test

A group of Isuzu Trucks automotive technicians and apprentices are gearing up for an exciting battle of skills in Melbourne later this month. 

Up for grabs is the chance for two technicians to compete against Isuzu technicians from around the world at the famed I-1 Grand Prix (I-1 GP) in November. 

Earlier in July, 63 technicians and apprentices took part in an online qualifier event that tested the automotive knowledge and skills of apprentices and technicians through a one-hour written exam, while the technicians went on to do three 10-minute virtual failure diagnostic exercises. 

Eight technicians and apprentices are now bound for Melbourne to compete in the National Technical Skills Competition on July 27. ​ 

On the day, the competitors will undertake a one-hour written exam and a one-hour on-vehicle exercise. ​ 

Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) National Training Manager David Smith said the National Technical Skills Competition was a fantastic opportunity for technicians and apprentices to showcase their skills. ​ 

“Supporting our technicians is crucial, given the shortage of skilled workers in the industry in Australia and globally,” Mr Smith said. 

Earlier this year, Australia’s National Skills Commission said its latest assessment of skill shortages found that 42 per cent of technician and trade occupations are in shortage, compared to 19 per cent of all occupations in shortage. 

Pre-covid, the annual I-1 GP was held in Japan since 2006 but this year the event is once again a virtual competition. ​ 

IAL’s team won the international competition in 2011, and made podium finishes in six more of international events. 

“The National Technical Skills Competition, the I-1 GP and the Walkinshaw Andretti United V8 supercar pit crew experience are some of the fantastic skill-building experiences for technicians at Isuzu,” Mr Smith said. ​ 

“These experiences are in addition to the regular training undertaken by Isuzu Trucks technicians to update their knowledge of vehicle inspections, diagnosis, repairs and systems management.” 

The eight technicians who will compete for a place on the I-1 Grand Prix team at the national competition are: ​ 

  • Kaylem Brown, ​ Canberra Isuzu, Queanbeyan, ​ NSW 
  • Brad Hickey, Peel Valley Isuzu, Tamworth, NSW 
  • Joshua Mortimer, Northern Rivers Isuzu, Lismore, NSW 
  • Boyd Mole, Brisbane Isuzu, Archerfield, QLD 
  • Justin Walker, Westar Truck Centre, Derrimut, VIC 
  • Louis Holt, Bendigo Isuzu, Bendigo, VIC 
  • Jordan Jeffers, North East Isuzu, Burton, SA 
  • Kaiden Hayter, South West Isuzu, Picton, WA 

 The eight apprentices who will compete are: 

  • Tom O’Connor, Gilbert & Roach Isuzu, Hexham, NSW 
  • Pradeep Siddiki, Suttons Motors Arncliffe, Arncliffe, NSW 
  • James Boyce, Black Truck Sales, Toowoomba, QLD 
  • Cory John, Brisbane Isuzu, Archerfield, QLD 
  • Matthew Dinola, Patterson Cheney Trucks, Dandenong, VIC 
  • Sammy Allan, Ballarat Isuzu, Wendouree, VIC 
  • Jaiden McManus, North East Isuzu, Burton, SA 
  • Johnathon Kurthy, Major Motors, Forrestfield, WA 

All 16 competitors have won their choice of either a Milwaukee 18v Fuel 1/2" High Torque Impact Wrench Kit or a Milwaukee 18v Fuel One-Key 3/4" High Torque Impact Wrench Kit. The top two highest-scoring technicians and the top two scoring apprentices at the National Technical Skills competition will also win thousands of dollars’ worth of Snap-On tools. ​ 

IAL_National_Technical_Skills_Competition.docx

DOCX - 29 Kb

 

Sam Gangemi

Marketing and Advertising Manager, Isuzu Australia Limited

Arkajon Communications

Public Relations Agency

 

 

Get updates in your mailbox

By clicking "Subscribe" I confirm I have read and agree to the Privacy Policy.

About Isuzu Trucks

Isuzu Truck's promise to deliver a premium product to the Australian market has been proudly and consistently upheld. The measure of our commitment is reflected in the number of trucks on the road that bear our marque, and the number of successful companies relying on Isuzu trucks every day. When we talk about reliability, we're not just talking about trucks, but also about people and indeed our entire philosophy. In addition to our in-house Customer Care Centre, customers also have access to an extensive range of service and support programs designed to ensure that Isuzu truck ownership is a positive and rewarding experience for all concerned.

Contact

66 Foundation Road Truganina VIC 3029 PO Box 328, Altona North VIC 3025

+613 9644 6666

isuzu@arkajon.com.au

www.isuzu.com.au