The 2018 Best Apprentice Competition organised by the Automobile Training Board under the Vocational Training Council (VTC) concluded successfully earlier (5 November) where contending apprentices competed on professional skills in vehicle maintenance. In addition to the trophies and cash prizes conferred, six winners will join a trip to Munich in Germany next January. They will tour local auto plants to learn about the latest technologies being employed in the motor industry for upgrading and updating their specialised skills. Twelve apprentices were shortlisted into the final round of the 33rd Best Apprentice Competition concluded on 5 November. The competition was divided into two groups, namely the Vehicle Mechanic/Electrician group, and the Vehicle Body Repairer/Painter group. The former tested contestants’ skills in engine performance measurement and maintenance, braking and electrical systems, and diagnosis and recovery of faulty engines. The latter focused on replacement and adjustment of door, welding bodywork, repairing damaged body panels, and car painting. Guest of Honour, Member of the Legislative Council The Honourable Frankie YICK Chi-ming, said, “As times are changing, vehicle maintenance can no longer be done with simple tools. The auto industry is migrating to an electronic age, placing a premium on the broad-based knowledge and professional skills of practitioners.” He further noted that as the number of vehicles was constantly rising, the demand for auto maintenance was also on the rise and students pursuing studies on automotive engineering would have bright career prospects. Chairman of VTC Automobile Training Board Wilson LAM Kit pointed out that the Board has been arranging winners of the competition for overseas trip to visit auto plants and exhibition halls so as to enable the younger generation to learn new technologies and enhance their exposure. LAM said, “Auto technologies are developing fast with manufacturers constantly innovating their green, energy saving and automation technologies. As a member of the auto industry, one must keep abreast of and get equipped for the latest development rising to the challenges and opportunities ahead.” He also said that the Board organised regular technical seminars for exchanges among industry practitioners. Organised for participation on a voluntary basis by final year vehicle mechanic, electricians, body repairer and body painter apprentices, the Competition is held every year with the staunch support of employers and apprentices since its inception in 1986. This year, a total of 54 competitors nominated by their employers took part, of whom 12 were shortlisted for the final competition. They competed for a total of six awards, namely the championship and first, second and third runner-up prizes in the Vehicle Mechanic/Electrician group, and championship and first runner-up prizes in the Vehicle Body Repairer/Painter group. The Automobile Training Board is one of the 25 training boards under the VTC. The boards conduct regular manpower surveys to collect updated information on the manpower situation of their respective industries to forecast manpower growth, ascertain training demands and formulate proposals to employers, education and training providers to meet the demands for industry professionals. Media enquiries: 2836 1340 / 2836 1047 Annex: Winners of the 2018 Best Apprentice Competition
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