The IRTE Bus & Coach Skills Challenge 2025 is the premier event for bus and coach engineers, designed to test and enhance both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise.
Now in its 13th year, this competition continues to be a key fixture in the transport industry, recognising and celebrating the skills of engineers and technicians. A free-to-enter event, IRTE’s flagship event Skills Challenge, is something to be experienced at least once in your career – whether you are an apprentice, a qualified technician or an engineer.
Here are ten compelling reasons why you should participate in the IRTE Skills Challenge 2025.
1. Gain National Recognition
This prestigious engineering competition provides a platform for bus and coach engineers and technicians to showcase their skills at a national level. Participants will have the chance to demonstrate their technical capabilities and problem-solving skills to industry leaders, opening doors to career advancement.
2. Boost Your Career Development
Taking part in the Skills Challenge offers invaluable hands-on experience with the latest industry technologies. With the chance to learn from experts and peers alike, participants have the opportunity to develop their technical expertise, keeping them ahead of industry advancements and career opportunities.
3. Strengthen Your Professional Network
The event brings together industry leaders, employers, and fellow engineers, offering networking opportunities that can lead to career growth. Connecting with like-minded professionals provides insights into job prospects, collaborations, and industry trends.
4. Benchmark Your Skills Against Industry Standards
The IRTE Skills Challenge is an excellent opportunity to measure your skills against industry benchmarks. For employers, it helps identify strengths and areas for improvement, shaping future training programmes and enhancing workforce performance.
5. Showcase Your Commitment to Excellence
Being part of the Skills Challenge demonstrates a commitment to high standards in vehicle maintenance and safety. Competing highlights an engineer’s dedication to professionalism and continuous learning, strengthening their industry reputation.
6. Help Address the Skills Gap
By participating, you contribute to tackling the skills shortage in the transport industry. Showcasing technical excellence and inspiring others to enter the profession ensures a strong future workforce, keeping the industry innovative and sustainable.
7. Celebrate Your Achievements
The Skills Challenge is not just a competition; it’s a celebration of engineering excellence. Engineers and teams are recognised for their hard work, dedication, and technical skills, making participation a motivating and rewarding experience.
8. Drive your CPD
The event provides free Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities, helping engineers enhance their qualifications and maintain their professional standing. The knowledge gained can be applied directly to daily roles, improving job performance.
9. Gain Industry-Wide Recognition and Awards
Successful participants are recognised at a prestigious awards ceremony, with winners receiving industry-wide acclaim. Whether winning, being a finalist, or simply competing, taking part boosts both individual and employer reputations.
Watch last year’s awards highlights
10. Be Part of an Esteemed Legacy
With a rich history spanning over a decade, the IRTE Bus & Coach Skills Challenge has built a legacy of excellence in the transport sector. Participating connects you with past and future generations of skilled engineers, securing your place in the industry’s ongoing success story.
Meet the past winners
What are you waiting for?
The IRTE Bus & Coach Skills Challenge 2025 is more than a competition; it’s an opportunity for growth, recognition, and professional excellence. Whether you’re an experienced engineer or an apprentice, this event offers a unique chance to develop your skills, gain industry recognition, and contribute to the future of transport engineering.