Independent Windscreen Academy spearheads search for 2011 UK Master Fitter

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The hunt is on for the UK’s top automotive glazing technician as part of a fresh campaign being launched by the Independent Windscreen Academy (IWA) to showcase the complex skills needed in today's automotive glazing sector.



First run in 2010, UK Master Fitter has been included in the automotive disciplines of the global Worldskills format in only its first year of competition.



The national contest is open to all installers of automotive glass, of which there are some 700 businesses operating in the UK. A questionnaire and telephone interview will determine a shortlist of regional finalists, who will compete at one of seven events later this year.



The final of UK Master Fitter will be held during the autumn. Entrants must register before the end of March at http://www.ukmasterfitter.co.uk



UK Master Fitter is being managed by Proskills, the Sector Skills Council for the glass and related industries with direct support from IWA, which is providing administrative, technical and training assistance.



Maria Charlton, Director of the Independent Windscreen Academy, said:



“It’s fantastic to see automotive glazing recognised within Worldskills and this will help us take UK Master Fitter to new heights.  We hope that businesses will get behind our campaign for skills recognition, as we’ve got some very talented people in our industry."



Continued Charlton:



"It’s a great chance to see them compete internationally as we saw with Matt Cassells, the 2010 Master Fitter champion who came fourth in Germany, a brilliant achievement at his first attempt.”



Having launched brand new Apprenticeships in Automotive Glazing in England and Scotland last year, IWA is launching industry specific funded qualifications this month to technicians working in Wales.



ENDS