The IRTE Skills Challenge officially launched this June with the PSV Testing Week held at S&B Automotive Academy.
Competitors worked on a range of mechanical and electrical challenges, with practical and theory assessments designed to reflect real-world maintenance and inspection scenarios. The standard of work on display once again highlighted the depth of talent within the sector and the continued importance of structured skills development within the workforce.
SOE Chief Executive Emma Thompson said the PSV Testing Week shines a vital spotlight on the engineers and technician who keep our passenger transport networks safe and reliable.
“The PSV Skills Challenge is far more than a competition, it is a celebration of the professionalism, expertise, and pride that underpin our sector,” she said.
“Crucially, it also helps us address one of the biggest challenges we face: the skills gap.
“By raising the profile of these careers and showcasing the technical excellence involved, the challenge inspires new talent to join the industry and supports the development of those already within it.
“Aligned with the SOE’s commitment to professional standards and lifelong learning, the PSV Skills Challenge plays an important role in strengthening our workforce and securing the future of the sector.”
Check out the gallery
Explore highlights from PSV Testing Week and see competitors, challenges, and behind-the-scenes moments in the full gallery.
Thank you to our competing teams
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all teams who took part in PSV Testing Week. Your commitment to skills development is what makes the IRTE Skills Challenge such a valued and respected initiative within the industry.
- Go Ahead London
- Lothian Buses
- Metroline London and Manchester
- Reading Buses
- Trent Barton
- Arriva London
- Ensign Bus
- First Bus Manchester, London and Cymru
- National Express
Thank you to our sponsors
The IRTE Skills Challenge would not be possible without the continued support of our industry sponsors. Their commitment helps ensure the competition remains accessible, relevant and impactful for all participants.
We would like to thank:
- Headline Sponsor Pelican Engineering Group
- Disc-Lock
- Febi Truck
- GTG Engineering
- Imperial Engineering
- TengTools
Your support plays a vital role in helping us develop the next generation of skilled professionals across the sector.
Looking ahead
Following a successful PSV Testing Week, attention now turns to the next stage of the competition. We are looking forward to welcoming competitors to the HGV Testing Days on 20 to 21 August, where teams will once again put their technical expertise to the test in a high-pressure, practical environment.
Following this we’re excited to announce the IRTE Skills Challenge Awards will be held on September 25, where we will come together to recognise outstanding performance, celebrate achievement, and highlight the individuals and teams who have gone above and beyond throughout the competition.
As ever, the Skills Challenge continues to showcase the importance of hands-on training, professional standards, and collaboration across the industry.
We look forward to seeing what the next stages of the competition will bring.
For enquiries or to register a team to compete in the HGV Testing Days, contact [email protected].