Part of the National Apprenticeship Service

TeamUK Results 2011

5 Gold
2 Silver
6 Bronze

Biography

Bill Jones

East Midlands
Skill: 
Car Painting
Home Town: 
Leicestershire
Employer: 
Electrical Contractors' Association

 

Memberships : 

MIMI (Member of the Institute of the Motor Industry)

Are you City & Guilds qualified?: 
Yes
What involvement have you had with competitions?: 

I have participated in seven WorldSkills competitions and have written and co-ordinated the national regional and final competitions for Car Painting, Auto Body Repair and Automotive Technology for the past 4 years

Who would you like to thank for their support?: 

I would like to thank my employers and all members of the Refinish Industry who have always stepped up to the plate in supporting the competitions and supplying products and equipment.

What made you take on this role?: 

I was approached by the industry representatives and while not fully aware of what to expect at the time I now believe this is the best career move I have ever made.

Why do you think WorldSkills is important?: 

The emotional, self reflection, training commitment moves young people to achieve a state of being and mind that builds solid and effective platforms for their future development.

What do you enjoy most about your role?: 

The fascination of taking ‘raw material’ and trying to work out how to guide them towards excellence. Also, working as part of a most worthwhile organisation.

How has this year differed to WorldSkills Calgary 2009?: 

There is much more empowerment for the competitors and the pressure of hosting the competition has made us more determined.

How are you using this experience in your workplace?: 

I support UK Skills and WorldSkills activities.

What do you think being part of this process does for young people?: 

It accelerates emotional maturity and confidence.

What sets a WS competitor apart from your average young person?: 

WS competitors possess confidence, articulation and determination.

What would be your message to industry about entering future competitions?: 

There are only benefits to entering competitions and this is the best way of developing your workforce

What impact will WorldSkills London 2011 have on your industry?: 

It will provide an opportunity to showcase the industry on a worldwide stage and hopefully change the myth that if you can only be a car painter if you are not academic!.

Something we didn’t know about you...: 

I used to work as a radio presenter with a country music show twice a week. I am not as old as I look but WorldSkills has taken its toll!