High calibre unveiled at Isuzu Trucks National Technical Skills Competition 2023

This year’s National Technical Skills Competition (NTSC), held on 29 November 2023, saw some of the most talented Isuzu Trucks technicians and apprentices in the country challenged in a series of tests against their colleagues, the clock, and ultimately, themselves.

Well-known for drawing the best and brightest into the spotlight, the annual competition forms part of Isuzu Australia Limited’s (IAL) full-circle approach of investing in and developing its greatest resource—its people.

As such, IAL congratulated all participants and proudly announced the top two finalists, Jason Lee from Road Runner Mechanical Services and Connor Gillam from Major Motors, both hailing from Western Australia.

From left to right: Connor Gillam from Major Motors WA and Jason Lee from Road Runner Mechanical Services WA

“I am so pleased to congratulate our two top finalists Jason and Connor, and to see the high calibre of apprentices and service technicians that have come through to the final stage of the National Technical Skills Competition,” said IAL Head of Aftersales, Brett Stewart. 

“This competition encourages technicians to challenge themselves personally but also has a positive flow on effect for the dealerships and Isuzu customers who benefit from their expertise.”

After rigorous training and a qualifying round, eight apprentices and eight qualified technicians made up the field for this year’s NTSC:

Jason Lee of Road Runner Mechanical Services, concentrating on vehicle diagnostics

Onwards and upwards

The 2023 NTSC followed the format of previous years, involving a written examination and a series of high-pressure practical tests under the watchful eye of judges.

This year’s competition emphasised the need for technicians to be able to respond quickly to new challenges and the emergent technology applying to Isuzu Trucks product.

Mr Stewart said he was impressed with the level of knowledge and rigour applied to solving these complex problems.

“These are the people who operate behind garage doors, behind the scenes, but there’s no other group within the business with more knowledge of the product and how it’s being used.

“From what I have seen with those participating in the competition—it leaves me with no doubt that the Isuzu Australia network has the right workforce, with the right skills to meet the challenges of the future,” said Mr Stewart.

For the two finalists of the technician’s round, a more immediate challenges will be competing as Team Australia in the international I-1 Grand Prix, which will be held in Japan next year.

Connor Gillam from Major Motors during the practical round of the 2023 NTSC

Winner, winner

“Road Runner Mechanical Services in Geraldton is a relative newcomer to the Isuzu network, so it's great to be a part of the experience,” said Mr Lee.

“I haven't been to Japan before, so this is an amazing opportunity to visit and take part in the I-1 Grand Prix.”

Mr Gillam echoed this sentiment, “It was my goal to reach Japan and compete in the I-1 Grand Prix, but I did not honestly expect to take out one of the top spots.

“Working with trucks is my thing and I want to stay in the game for as long as possible… this event has been really motivating and I am stoked to have the chance to compete,” he said.

From left to right: The WA/SA team including apprentice Jacob Newberry (far left), winners Jason Lee and Connor Gillam, and apprentice Blake Brown, with IAL Head of Aftersales Brett Stewart (far right)

Apprentices on the up

The two top scoring contestants from the apprentice round were Matthew Dinola from Patterson Cheney Trucks in Victoria and Kim Coronacion from Bendigo Isuzu.

“Congratulations to all our apprentices who trained so hard and did us proud at the event,” commented Mr Stewart.

“As a former service technician, myself, it always brings me great pleasure to see how events like this highlight the value of service techs and apprentices in this industry, while also providing a platform for our young people to network.

“With many students just now graduating from high school and looking towards their future, this is a timely reminder that a career as a service technician can come with many exciting moments and opportunities,” he continued.

“Especially for those who might be considering a career as an Isuzu technician—and all the benefits that come with working alongside Australia’s number one truck brand.”

Interested parties can discover career opportunities and more on becoming a certified technician with Isuzu Trucks at isuzu.com.au/work-with-us.