Jason Els Crowned Technician of the Year at Ford’s 2024 Skills Contest
In the competitive arena of automotive excellence, Jason Els has made a remarkable name for himself by clinching the coveted title of Technician of the Year at Ford’s 2024 Skills Contest. The event, held in Silverton, Pretoria, on September 10-11, attracted over 600 talented Ford technicians from across South Africa, all eager to showcase their skills and technical prowess.
The multi-faceted competition kicked off with an open round where Jason, along with two other representatives from Ford Alberton, tackled an online test that served as a gateway to the next stage. Only those who excelled would move forward, and Jason, alongside his colleague Crave Kock, demonstrated their formidable skills, advancing to the next round that featured a rigorous 100-question online examination. With sharp focus and preparation, Jason secured a spot in the top 10, paving the way for the national finals.
During the final stretch, participants were put to the test not only through theoretical questions but also with 10 practical challenges, covering both vehicle and bench tests. Each task was time-pressed, demanding quick thinking and expert execution within a strict 20-minute window. Reflecting on his journey, Els noted, “The competition emphasized not just knowledge but its practical application,” a testament to the hands-on experience that Ford champions in their training programs.
Entering Ford Alberton as an apprentice four years ago, Jason has climbed the ranks with determination and study. He has completed his Red Seal qualification and is on the verge of finishing the Master Tech programme, which includes 11 specializations and 140 courses. His commitment to self-improvement and mastery is visible to peers and management alike. Nico Bruyns, service manager at Ford Alberton, praised Jason for his dedication, stating, “We are incredibly proud of Jason’s achievements and what they represent for the future of our team.”
As Jason looks to the future, he is optimistic that this accolade will lead to new opportunities and further career advancements in the automotive industry. For those interested in the evolving landscape of automotive expertise in South Africa, Jason’s story serves as an inspiring reminder of what is possible through hard work, perseverance, and passion.
This victory not only highlights Jason’s individual accomplishments but also demonstrates the commitment of Ford to fostering talent and innovation within the industry. With the growing demand for skilled technicians, especially in a tech-driven world, the spotlight is now on individuals like Jason, who are poised to lead the charge into a brighter and more technologically advanced future.
Stay tuned to Africazine for more uplifting stories about talent and innovation in the African automotive industry!
Tags: #SouthAfrica #Ford #SkillsCompetition #WorldNews #BusinessNews #Lifestyle