Exeter College student shortlisted for national automotive skills finals

An Exeter College automotive student has been selected for the IMI Skills Competitions National Finals, placing them among the candidates set to compete at one of the UK’s major events for rising automotive technicians.

Austin Watson-Jones, aged 21, who studies Motor Vehicle Service and Maintenance Technician - Light Vehicle Level 3, at Exeter College, has been selected as one of the top competitors in the country. 

Austin will compete in the Light Vehicle category, the most subscribed of the competition’s four disciplines.

The Institute of Motor Industry (IMI) Skills Competition is held each year to recognise and showcase emerging talent within the UK’s automotive sector. 

It identifies top-performing apprentices and helps develop their abilities across disciplines such as light and heavy vehicle technology, body repair and refinishing.

The competition is open to current Level 3 apprentices as well as those who completed their apprenticeship within the past 12 months.

He will travel to Cardiff later this month, where the finals take place from 25–28 November 2025 at Cardiff and Vale College. 

The event brings together finalists from across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland for three days of intensive practical assessments that replicate real workshop conditions. 

Tasks are designed by industry experts and reflect modern challenges in the automotive sector, including advanced diagnostics and the growing demands of electric and hydrogen technologies.

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This year’s competition is the largest yet, and finalists will also be in contention for potential selection for WorldSkills International 2026 in China.

Austin is joined by other competitors from across the UK, including fellow South West finalist Tristan Hunter from Budleigh Salterton, who works with MAN in Exeter and will compete in the Heavy Vehicle category.

The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) says this year’s finalists reflect the rapid shift in automotive skills requirements as the industry adapts to electrification, advanced driver-assistance systems and increasing shortages in specialist technical roles. 

Organisers also reported record numbers of nominations, indicating rising interest in vocational pathways among young people entering the sector.

Austin said he is proud to represent both Exeter College and his employer in the national finals: “I'm very proud to have made it to this stage of the competition. Being enrolled in Exeter College is what has given me this amazing opportunity to prove myself and show the industry what I'm capable of.” 

“I'd also like to acknowledge my employer Pete at MBS Ltd. I started my mechanical journey with him at work experience in secondary school, moving on to a part-time job during college and eventually the apprenticeship I am currently on.”

“The skills and techniques that are the building blocks for my career came from MBS and Exeter College, and I am incredibly proud to represent them both in the UK final of the competition.”

Kim Tapp, Austin’s tutor at Exeter College, said he has consistently demonstrated the commitment and aptitude needed for a career in the sector: “I have been Austin’s tutor throughout his automotive journey at Exeter College and have watched him grow into a confident and fantastic technician.” 

“Austin consistently brings enthusiasm and energy to every task. His strong foundational knowledge shines through in both discussions and practical work, and he is always willing to share his experience to support others.”

“We are all proud of Austin here at Exeter College and wish him the best of luck next week at the finals. We will be there to support him all the way.”