Delphi Academy recently welcomed finalists of the IMI Skills Competition Heavy Vehicle Technology category for an intensive masterclass to sharpen their diagnostic skills ahead of the national finals later this month.
Competitors got hands-on access to one of Europe’s largest technician training facilities. Spanning over 9,000 sq. ft. of open workshop space, the academy houses more than 15 modern vehicles, including a Tesla Model S, BMW 3 Series plug-in hybrid, and Toyota Mirai, covering a wide range of powertrains and systems.
Participants were given access to Delphi Academy’s seven vehicle lifts, including a four-post lift with 4-wheel alignment capabilities, advanced tyre fitting stations, the latest diagnostic equipment, and an extensive collection of specialist tools and technical data.
“The day is all about building confidence through logical thinking,” explained David Guilfoyle, Technical Trainer at Delphi Academy. “In the finals, competitors may encounter something unfamiliar, but that’s part of real-world diagnostics. Following the structured process we’ve covered allows them to work methodically and stay composed under pressure. That’s what separates a good technician from a great one.”
The training was based on a condensed version of Delphi’s Introduction to Diagnostics course, guiding technicians through six structured steps from fault identification to repair verification. Delphi’s trainers led participants through each stage, emphasising best practice in electrical fault diagnosis and efficient problem-solving.
The hands-on approach was met with enthusiasm from competitors. Lewis Somerscale, IMI Heavy Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Level 3 Apprentice at Fife College and Fife Council, said: “The day has been really interesting and useful. I’ve never used these tools before, so it’s been a great experience. Even though I’m at the end of my apprenticeship, this is training I haven’t had before, so it’s been really valuable.”
Scott Shinn, Field Service Manager (Technical) at MAN Truck & Bus UK and Lead Judge for the Heavy Vehicle Technology Competition, added: “The masterclass gives competitors a great opportunity to refine their diagnostic process and get comfortable with the tools before the finals. The national competition will step up a notch in difficulty, challenging them to demonstrate not just technical ability, but also diagnostic thinking and efficiency under pressure.”
The session allowed participants to familiarise themselves with diagnostic software and hardware, explore the tools’ capabilities, and practise structured fault-finding techniques in a realistic workshop environment.
As the venue of choice for both the IMI Skills competition heats and the prestigious Top Awards series, Delphi Academy continues to cement its reputation as the UK’s leading training centre for vehicle technicians.
“Hosting these flagship events allows us to showcase our facilities and demonstrate our commitment to developing the next generation of highly skilled technicians,” said Luke Garratt, UK Technical Services Manager at Delphi. “It’s a privilege to support competitors at every stage, helping them build the confidence, knowledge and practical expertise that will shape their careers and ultimately help drive the industry forward.”
For more information on Delphi Academy and its training programmes, visit: https://www.delphiautoparts.com/en-gb/delphi-academy.
