Stoneacre Technician Triumph in the 2023 Hyundai World Skills Olympics

In the world of automotive expertise, precision and skill are essential, and few demonstrate this better than Tim Cartwright, a Master Technician hailing from Stoneacre Chesterfield Hyundai.

Tim’s journey to the pinnacle of his craft reached new heights in 2023 as he showcased his exceptional abilities on a global stage.

His ascent began in August 2023 when he clinched the British Skills Olympics, earning him the coveted ticket to represent the UK on the global stage.

Undoubtedly, the pinnacle of his success was securing third place in the Hyundai World Skills Olympics, a testament to his prowess in an international arena. This unparalleled event, held in Korea, served as the ultimate battleground for automotive technicians worldwide, testing their mettle across a spectrum of challenges.

Competition in Korea

The four-day event was a rigorous test of technical acumen, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability. The initial day set the tone with orientation sessions and group assignments, followed by a gruelling hour-long written examination. However, the spotlight of innovation shone brightly during the VR practice and practical tests—a new inclusion in this year’s competition. Organisers were keen on contestant feedback, highlighting the evolving landscape of automotive technology.

Tim’s group embarked on a whirlwind journey on Day 2, visiting the global learning centre for five practical tests encompassing electrical diagnostics, CAN network fault finding on diverse cars (non-UK market), and an electrifying segment dedicated to Electric Vehicle (EV) technology. Each challenge demanded precision and an astute understanding of evolving automotive systems.

Day 3 unveiled an immersive experience, starting with a visit to the Asan car plant and culminating in a tour of the Hyundai steelworks. Witnessing the intricate process of steel production for car manufacturing offered unparalleled insights into the automotive industry’s backbone.

The final day was a celebration of culture and heritage, with a visit to the awe-inspiring Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, followed by souvenir shopping at the vibrant Insadong Street.

Tim shared his thoughts, expressing immense pride in representing the UK among nearly 75 other contestants. He acknowledged the significance of the trip to HME in Germany, where cultural immersion proved invaluable alongside technical training. The journey wasn’t without its challenges; Tim confessed to the significant leap from his first flight of 1 ¾ hours to a staggering 13-hour flight to Korea, marking only his second time in the air.

Third Place for Tim!

Despite fierce competition, Tim Cartwright showcased unwavering determination and finesse, securing an impressive third-place finish on the world stage. His exceptional performance demonstrated not only his technical prowess but also his adaptability in tackling new challenges, especially evident in his approach to the novel VR testing.

Reflecting on the experience, Tim highlighted the honour of participating in the opening ceremony, a moment where the UK’s current title holders had the privilege of returning the trophy and reciting the oath. He extended his gratitude to Gavin and James for their unwavering support and acknowledged the sacrifices made in terms of workshop commitments and expenses incurred during training and travel.

Tim’s journey from triumph at the national level to an outstanding performance on the global platform stands as a testament to his dedication, expertise, and ability to thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of automotive technology.

A Welcomed Return

On Thursday, 16th November 2023, Stoneacre Chesterfield welcomed Ben Sargeant, Head of Customer Service for Hyundai UK, along with Gerry George, Stoneacre’s Aftersales Director, and Scott Fairhead, Hyundai Zone Manager, for a personal meeting to extend their congratulations to Tim.

Ben, Gerry, and Scott engaged Tim in discussions about his experience, expressing gratitude for representing Hyundai UK and Stoneacre as the British entry in the world finals. The gathering concluded with a group photograph, followed by a gesture of appreciation—a treat of pizzas and doughnuts for the entire team.

Gerry George, Aftersales Director, commented on this success:

“It’s brilliant to see Tim achieving such a prestigious award. To achieve this in a global competition reflects the dedication he has shown to his professional development throughout his time at Stoneacre. Tim is a credit to himself and our Company.

“We pride ourselves on the opportunities we provide employees with to develop their skills and achieve qualifications, be this in the form of accreditations, certifications, apprenticeships, or other training programmes.

“It is brilliant to see a member of the Stoneacre team achieving this Worldwide Status with a prestigious engineering brand in Hyundai. The Directors and his colleagues within Stoneacre applaud Tim’s achievement.”

As he returns to Stoneacre Hyundai, Tim Cartwright carries not just the accolades of victories but also a wealth of experience and insights gained from competing amongst the finest in the world. His achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring technicians and a testament to the heights that can be reached through a relentless pursuit of excellence in one’s craft.