PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA, 16 October 2025 – In an industry where technology evolves at lightning speed and customer expectations grow ever more sophisticated, technical mastery has never been more essential. Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (Manufacturing) (Pty) Limited (“Ford South Africa”) recently showcased the very best of local automotive expertise, hosting its annual Service Engineering & Operations (SE&O) Skills Contest on 18 September.
The event brought together nine of South Africa’s most skilled Ford technicians, each vying for the coveted title of the country’s top technician. Across three custom-designed test stations, competitors faced deliberately engineered vehicle faults, putting their diagnostic methodology, logical problem-solving, and mastery of diagnostic tools to the ultimate test. These competencies, Ford emphasises, are the very foundation of service excellence within its dealer network.
Global Standards, Local Talent
PK Umashankar, Director of Customer Service Operations, International Markets Group (IMG), underscored the global significance of technical expertise: “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.”
For Ford South Africa, this competition represents more than a contest—it is a clear statement of the brand’s commitment to continuous learning, career development, and recognition of world-class talent. “Top technicians are like gold, and in South Africa there are real opportunities to fast-track careers and be recognised for expertise,” explained Kevin Heunis, Director of SE&O at Ford South Africa.
Investing in People, Driving Excellence
Heunis highlighted the broader impact of skilled technicians on Ford’s dealerships: “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 competition culminated in an awards ceremony celebrating all nine finalists, who represent the top tier of technical talent across 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 secured second place, while Michael Stewien from BB Ford Menlyn claimed third. The top three contestants also received monetary awards recognising their technical expertise.
“To the contestants, you’ve inspired us all,” said Heunis. “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.”
A Celebration of Skill and Passion
The SE&O Skills Contest is more than a competition—it is a celebration of the skill, precision, and passion that underpin Ford’s commitment to service excellence. Through continuous investment in technical training and career development, Ford South Africa is empowering its people, nurturing world-class talent, and ensuring its dealerships remain benchmarks for quality, innovation, and customer care across the nation.
