Shell Powers Up the ‘Shell Mechanic Champions League’, the Race for Thailand’s Auto Excellence Driving Careers Beyond Borders, Elevating Industry Standards

Shell Powers Up the ‘Shell Mechanic Champions League’, the Race for Thailand’s Auto Excellence Driving Careers Beyond Borders, Elevating Industry Standards

Shell, in collaboration with the Department of Skill Development under the Ministry of Labour, has organised the “Shell Mechanic Champions League” – a national competition for automotive mechanics across Thailand. This initiative aims to elevate the skills of Thai mechanics to an international standard, enhancing their expertise in safe and proper engine maintenance, promoting sustainable career opportunities, improving the service of small auto repair shops, reinforcing Shell’s commitment to improving quality of life, and ensuring safe journeys on the road.

Ms. Ornuthai Na Chiangmai, Country Chair of The Shell Company of Thailand Limited, said, “Aligned with Shell’s Powering Progress strategy in transforming our energy business to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, we are committed to delivering cleaner energy solutions that meet the needs of all. For over 132 years in Thailand, Shell has supported energy security and provided high-quality products and world-class services to enhance the well-being of the Thai people. Our offerings, from fuel to engine maintenance with top-tier lubricants, are available nationwide, serviced by expert technicians to ensure engine safety and enhance the travel experience for both drivers and passengers.”

In our commitment to raising standards and enhancing the capabilities of Thai mechanics, Shell has partnered with the Department of Skill Development, Ministry of Labour, to host the “Shell Mechanic Champions League” – a national championship for mechanics. This competition aims to promote expertise in maintenance and care for motorcycles, cars, and trucks. This initiative provides mechanics across the country with opportunities to develop engine repair skills that meet international standards, while also aiming to improve quality of life, create sustainable careers, and contribute to overall well-being.

Mr. Pichet Thongphan, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Skill Development and Acting Inspector-General of the Ministry of Labour, said, “The Department of Skill Development aims to elevate Thai labour skills to internationally recognised standards to meet modern labour market demands. The ‘Shell Mechanic Champions League’ project, in collaboration with Shell, aligns with our mission to establish high standards of expertise for motorcycle, car, and truck mechanics. The competition’s format and criteria have been jointly developed to raise mechanical skills to international standards, enabling them to advance their careers, secure stable incomes, and improve safety in car repair services for general users. The Department is committed to further cooperation with private-sector partners like Shell to develop future projects that benefit both mechanics and society.”

Shell and the Department of Skill Development have continued their cooperation. In 2019, they organised the “Shell Advance Masterclass” competition to select a Thai motorcycle mechanic to represent the country and exchange knowledge with winners from other nations at the Shell Advance Masterclass Global Competition in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The competition focused on assembling large motorcycles (Big Bikes), and the team representing Thailand secured first place.

Mr. Kamolpat Baholyodhin, Executive Director of the Lubricants Business, The Shell Company of Thailand Limited, said, “At Shell Lubricants, we are dedicated to keeping the world progress today, for tomorrow. By offering high-quality lubricants and world-class services, we strive to provide customers with an exceptional experience while empowering mechanics to make informed product choices for optimal engine maintenance. Our range includes Shell Helix, a fully synthetic engine oil for cars developed in partnership with Ferrari and powered by PurePlus Technology, which ensures optimal engine protection from corrosion and heavy engine use, contributing to fuel savings and emissions reduction.

Shell Advance, the only motorcycle engine oil chosen by Ducati in the world-class Moto GP race, maintains engine power while providing exceptional heat protection, while Shell Rimula provides double the protection, reduces corrosion, and extends engine life. We are committed to advancing the careers of mechanics through skill development initiatives in collaboration with a range of key organisations.

The Shell Mechanic Champions League this year has drawn 287 expert mechanics across three categories: car mechanics, motorcycle mechanics, and large truck mechanics. Competitors will progress through three selection rounds:

1. Regional Representative Selection: Contestants must pass a general mechanics knowledge test covering both theoretical knowledge and practical criteria set by the Department of Skill Development. Those scoring 70% or higher will earn a certificate from the Department.
2. Regional Winner Selection: Successful candidates undergo theoretical training and a post-training test. Upon passing, they advance to the practical competition stage. Judging criteria are based on a collaborative agreement between Shell and the Department of Skill Development.
3. National Winner Selection: In the final round, 28 regional representatives from across the country compete in a practical test, accumulating points to determine the national mechanic champion.

Prizes include 30,000 baht for the champion, 20,000 baht for the first runner-up, and 5,000 baht for the second runner-up.

Mr. Chumpol Serkphukhiao, 37, owner of Chum Phae Auto Service Garage in Khon Kaen Province and winner in the car mechanic category, shared his pride in his achievement, “Winning the automotive mechanic championship is a tremendous honour. I first heard about the competition through Shell’s Facebook page, and it offered me valuable knowledge, including standard car repair procedures and the use of specialised tools for parts that can’t be serviced with general tools, which enhances our garage’s credibility. I also learned about Shell’s premium products. This award not only boosts my confidence but assures customers of our expertise. I hope Shell will continue hosting this event to help mechanics advance their skills and gain experience.”

Ms. Ornuthai added, “The pride of the winners is only part of this competition’s success. Receiving the Shell Mechanic Champion title and a certificate from the Department of Skill Development opens doors for greater success in the field, elevating the skills of Thai mechanics to international standards. This not only creates job security and raises incomes to support families but aligns with Shell’s ‘Powering Lives’ pillar, promoting safe and efficient driving from engines that work at their full potential, extending engine life, reducing the chance of accidents from engine malfunctions and supporting business growth for the sustainable development of the Thai economy. Building on this commitment, Shell has been an integral part of Thailand’s growth for over 132 years.”