Young talent highlighted at IMI Annual Awards

PMM was in attendance at the ceremony in London’s glitzy InterContinental Hotel, where individuals and companies battling the skills gap were in full focus.

On Wednesday evening the Institute of the Motor Industry celebrated the achievements of individuals and organisations from across the sector at its Annual Dinner and Awards, from those just beginning their automotive career to the experts driving skills and setting professional and ethical standards. A total of ten IMI Award winners were recognised for their dedication to delivering best practice and their commitment and passion for driving change and future-proofing the industry.

Professor Jim Saker, president of the IMI, set the tone for the evening in his opening speech, telling the assembled audience: “Skills shortages, training, and future technologies remain critical issues for the sector. The IMI is, therefore, committed to working in collaboration with our members, partners and supporters to attract talent from all walks of life, as well as retaining and aiding progression for those already working in automotive. It is vital that the sector can develop the skills that will guarantee a workforce ready for electrification, autonomous technology and digitalisation.”

With skills shortages on the judges’ minds, Autotech Group was awarded the Partner of the Year, reflecting its support for the IMI’s work addressing the sector’s skills gap.

The Learner of the Year Award, along with the Fellowship of the Motor Industry bursary went to college student Jacob Fish. Jacob, an IMI level 2 student at Bridgwater and Taunton College was rewarded for his “resilience and dedication” after facing a set back in his studies due to a personal loss and a relocation. Jacob didn’t let adversity affect his studies, however, choosing instead to catch up on missed work, inspiring and helping fellow students, all the while maintaining a peerless 100 per cent attendance record. His dedication to his studies impressed the judges and have surely marked him out for a fruitful career in the industry.

The IMI’s There’s More to Motor campaign, now in its third year, has continued to showcase the opportunities for all within the sector, challenging misconceptions and attracting new talent.

The winners in full:

Learner of the Year Award sponsored by Northgate – and the ‘Fellowship of the Motor Industry’ bursary winner

Jacob Fish, Bridgwater and Taunton College

Partner of the Year Award sponsored by Belron

Autotech Group

International Partner of the Year Award sponsored by Autotech Group

Al-Futtaim Automotive

Contribution to the Work of the IMI Award sponsored by Snap-On

Carolyn Bundey, senior manager strategic projects, Toyota

There’s More to Motor: Championing Diversity in Automotive Award sponsored by Toyota GB

Volkswagen Group UK

The President’s Award 2025: Outstanding Contribution to the Motor Industry sponsored by LKQ Euro Car Parts