Search is on for best bus and coach technicians

Bus and coach technicians across the UK and Ireland are being invited to test their skills against each other in a bid to discover the best in the business.

The annual Institute of Road Transport Engineers’ (IRTE) Skills Challenge event takes place between 1-5 June at the S&B Academy in Bristol, and bus and coach operators have until 27 March to register their teams.

The event gives technicians the opportunity to show off their expertise in a series of mechanical, electrical and bodywork tasks, with a focus on safety and reliability.

Last year’s competition saw more than 60 technicians and apprentices from the likes of Arriva, First Group and Metroline competing.

This will also be the second year the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has sponsored the Challenge, with two DVSA awards up for grabs – Top Scoring DVSA Inspection Apprentice and Top Scoring DVSA Inspection Technician.

As well as gaining recognition for their expertise, the best teams will have the chance to take home prizes including a year’s free membership to the IRTE.

Entry is free via the registration form on the Society of Operations Engineers’ website. An awards ceremony celebrating the winners will be held in July.