Downpatrick student wins top award for vehicle repair

Downpatrick student wins top award for vehicle repair

A STUDENT at the South Eastern Regional College has won a major award.

Downpatrick’s Jonathan McKibbin (21), who studies at the College’s campus in his home town, recently won the NVQ Level 3 Heavy Vehicle repair prize at the prestigious annual IRTE (Institute of Road Transport Engineers) awards in Newtownabbey.

The two-day IRTE skills challenge celebrates and recognises the technicians that keep the country moving. The competition aims to encourage and reward academic excellence within the commercial vehicle field, with Jonathan receiving his award after gaining the highest marks throughout Northern Ireland.

Jonathan, who currently works for Saintfield firm Tony Patterson, is keen to progress his career in the automotive industry and intends to continue with his studies at the South Eastern College. He is currently studying the Level 4 Diploma in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles.

“I am absolutely delighted to receive my award. I put in a lot of hard work throughout the course and I would like to thank my tutors who provided me with a lot of help and support throughout my studies,” added Jonathan.

The College’s assistant Head of School for Construction and Engineering Tim McAllister said everyone is very proud of Jonathan.

He added: “Jonathan has been preparing for this event for many months and continually gave 110 per cent. He is a credit to the industry and to the College.”