The UK's Top Twelve Technicians Step Up

The tension is mounting for our twelve potential Top Technicians, who have each agreed to rise to the challenge of the live finals at the Automotive Trade Show next month. Who will take the title of Top Technician 2005?

Perhaps our Top Technician is working in a small independent garage, a fast fit or maybe a franchised dealership? Once named, he will be able to choose from a wide variety of prizes, from holidays or VIP tickets and motor sport events, to tools, equipment or formal training opportunities.

The live final will take place at the Automotive Trade Show (5-7 April), with four finalists competing on each of the three days. They had already passed two theory tests with flying colours, so the emphasis is on practical assessment.

The challenges will comprise comprehension, fault diagnosis and waveform interpretation using a Crypton oscilloscope and dry test rig produced by AG Block.

ReMIT assessors Melvyn Morgan and Terence Smith will work with Chairman of Judges Dave Garratt to ensure the marking process is consistent and fair. Says ReMIT managing director Stephen Ramsay, "This is something with which ReMIT is proud to be involved. The competition is more than just a demonstration of individual ability. The technicians taking part are not just representing themselves or their business, they are showing the spirit of our sector."

The top twelve technicians are:

• Clive Atthowe AMIMI, Clive Atthowe Tuning, Norwich
• Jerry Carroll, Carroll’s Garage, Paisley
• Brian Cowan, ‘Top Technician 2004’, Motortech, Stockton-on-Tees
• Iain Kershaw MAE MIMI, Milton Keynes
• Alan Millard, Audi-VW Centre, Melksham
• Mark Stainton MIMI, John Morris Motors, Scunthorpe
• Dave Symes, Exminster Garage, Nr. Exeter
• Geoff Taylor, Primrose Garage, Clitheroe
• Graeme Taylor MAE MIMI ‘Top Technician 2003’, Parks Renault, Dunfermline
• John Tinham CAE AMIMI, John Tinham Motor Engineer, Chelmsford
• Elliot Waters CAE MIMI, Dick Lovett, Swindon
• David Wagstaff, D C Mardles Motor Engineering, Exeter