Skills development and technical excellence are critical to the sustainability of South Africa’s automotive industry. As vehicle technology advances and customer expectations evolve, the demand for highly skilled technicians capable of diagnosing and maintaining complex systems has never been greater. In line with this commitment to continuous learning and professional development, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (Manufacturing) (Pty) Limited (“Ford South Africa”) hosted its Service Engineering & Operations (SE&O) Skills Contest on 18 September, celebrating the expertise, precision and passion of South Africa’s top Ford automotive technicians.

Nine of the country’s finest technicians competed across three custom-designed test stations, each featuring deliberately engineered vehicle faults. Participants were assessed on diagnostic methodology, logical fault isolation, and the effective use of diagnostic tools: key competencies that define Ford’s standard of service excellence.

Underpinning the importance of the event was PK Umashankar, Director of Customer Service Operations, International Markets Group (IMG), who highlighted the global significance of technical mastery: “I’m excited to be here in South Africa for one of its top technical skills contests. IMG runs similar events across all our markets, and the winner from South Africa will fly to Bangkok to compete against the best from the IMG region. The quality of the contestants here is something we can all be proud of, and I look forward to hosting the South African winner on the international stage.”

“Top technicians are like gold, and in South Africa there are real opportunities to fast-track careers and be recognised for expertise,” said Kevin Heunis, Director of SE&O at Ford South Africa, emphasising the importance of recognising and retaining skilled professionals.

“Our dealerships offer world-class environments where talent is valued. By investing in their development, we ensure these professionals thrive and continue to drive growth and innovation right here at home. Technicians are the backbone of every dealership. Their expertise directly impacts customer satisfaction, retention, and trust. Investing in their growth ensures we remain competitive in an increasingly complex and technology-driven industry.”

The event concluded with an awards ceremony recognising all nine finalists for achieving the top tier of technical talent within Ford’s dealer network.

Brendon Jordaan from Eastern Cape Motors North End was named South Africa’s Top Technician and will represent Ford South Africa at the IMG Skills Contest in Thailand this November. Marius Blanche from BB Ford Polokwane took second place and Michael Stewien from BB Ford Menlyn was placed third.

The top three contestants were recognised with a monetary award for their technical skill.

Heunis praised the participants for their dedication and excellence: “To the contestants, you’ve inspired us all. Your talent, determination, and spirit have set the bar for excellence in our industry. Whether you’re walking away with a prize or not, you’ve already achieved something remarkable. The automotive industry is demanding, fast-changing, and full of challenges, but it also brings out the very best in us.”

The SE&O Skills Contest is a celebration of the skill, precision and passion that drive excellence across its dealer network. Through continuous investment in technical training and career development, Ford South Africa is empowering its people to grow their careers and helping to retain exceptional talent within the country, ensuring its dealerships continue to set the benchmark for quality, innovation, and customer care nationwide.

Watch the highlights from the SE&O Skills Contest here.