Tiernan O'Reilly's Journey to the IMI Skills Competition Finals

From a summer job in his dad's body repair workshop to competing on the national stage, this year's IMI Skills Competition finalist has built his career through hands-on experience, determination and a passion for doing the job right. He shares how he discovered body repair, the skills he's developed along the way, and why competing has helped take his confidence and career to the next level.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the automotive industry and how did you get started?

I never originally planned to work in the automotive industry. I thought I'd become a joiner or an electrician because the jobs pay well. However, my dad works in body repair, and growing up I was always around the garage. Three years ago, he persuaded me to come and work with him during the summer, and that's when I started to enjoy body repair.

After that, I enrolled on a body repair course at Riverpark and started building my skills and experience. Another big influence was Ben Priestly, who has been involved in the UK Skills competitions a few years before I joined the college. He saw that I had some good skills and encouraged me to enter the IMI Skills Competition.

Over the last few years, I've developed a range of technical skills, including welding, filler repairs, metal finishing, chassis measuring and using a jig. Each of these skills has helped me become a more confident and capable technician, and I've enjoyed learning the different aspects of the trade.

How would you describe your experience so far in the IMI Skills Competition?

Taking part in the IMI Skills Competition has been a great experience. Last year was my first year, and I saw it as an opportunity to learn and understand how the competition works. I was really pleased to reach the finals and gain that experience. This year, I'm approaching it with a bit more confidence and hoping to go one step further and win a medal.

Last year was my first year, and I saw it as an opportunity to learn and understand how the competition works. I was really pleased to reach the finals and gain that experience. This year, I'm approaching it with a bit more confidence and hoping to go one step further and win a medal.

Tiernan O'Reilly

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 experience with equipment that I wouldn't normally use in my day-to-day work. Using the Car-O-Liner jig was something completely new to me and has helped broaden my knowledge and skill set.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in the automotive industry?

For anyone considering a career in body repair, my advice would be to focus on doing the job properly and not be put off by other people's opinions. I particularly enjoy metal finishing, and while some people might say it's not worth the extra effort, I believe it's important to achieve the best possible result.

I'd also encourage anyone thinking about entering the IMI Skills Competition to give it a go. It's a great learning experience, it helps you develop new skills, and it's a fantastic opportunity to get your name out there in the industry.

Find out more about the IMI Skills Competition.