Harvey Willoughby is an apprentice paint technician at RT Autos Body Shop who is competing in the IMI Skills Competition in Automotive Refinishing. Having discovered a passion for paint through his apprenticeship, Harvey has embraced the opportunity to develop his skills further through competition and gain valuable experience beyond his day-to-day role.
What inspired you to pursue a career in the automotive industry, and how did you get started?
My true answer is that I didn't want to go to college, so when an apprenticeship came up, I decided to take that route. I actually really enjoyed it once I started. At first, I wasn't sure which side of the industry I was going to go into. I didn't know whether it would be panel or paint. Then, on the day, I found out it was paint, which was the side I was hoping to do. I was lucky enough to get that opportunity, and I love it.
In terms of challenges throughout my career journey, it's been quite smooth sailing so far.
How would you describe your experience in the IMI Skills Competition?
I got entered into the IMI Skills Competition through my bodyshop. My boss put me in for it and then told me to go. I came down to the national qualifiers and was very nervous. Using different paints that I'd not used before was definitely challenging, and it was completely the opposite of what our paint schemes are like at work.
Coming to the pre-finals training and being able to use the paint scheme we're using for the competition has definitely brought my confidence up. I now understand what I need to change to make sure I can compete at my best.
What new skills or knowledge have you gained through participating in the competition?
One of the biggest things I've gained from the competition is a better understanding of what the judges are looking for and the areas where I need to improve. Competition work is very different from what I do day to day, so it has helped me identify where I need to do things differently when preparing for this level of challenge.
What advice would you give someone considering a career in the automotive industry?
I think becoming an apprentice is a great opportunity. Having opportunities like the IMI Skills Competition makes you more excited about being an apprentice because you feel like you're doing more than just being an apprentice painter. It feels like you're operating at a professional level. It feels completely different.
Find out more about the IMI Skills Competition here.
