Mitsubishi ‘Black Diamonds’ shine on world stage
Mitsubishi Motors NZ service advisor Michael Strudwick (Tawa) and technician Javan Huxtable (Nelson) pitted their wits and tested their mettle against the best of their international counterparts in Mitsubishi Motors’ Global Skills Competition in Tokyo last month.
The pair won the opportunity to represent New Zealand after coming first in their respective categories in MMNZ’s 2016 After Sales Skills Competition.
Twenty-eight countries took part in the grand final, with Michael finishing third among service advisors and Javan Huxtable receiving special praise for his performance in the technical group.
Michael said he is extremely proud to be rated as one of the best in the world in his profession.
“The opportunity to compete in Japan was awesome. The calibre of competition was really high and I was a little bit taken aback when I found out I’d finished third,” said Michael. “I didn’t know what to expect. I just stayed focused and stuck to the procedures I follow every day at work – and it paid off!
“Competing with service advisors from different counties was a highlight and gave me an insight into other countries’ service procedures. New Zealand is obviously up there with the best!” Mitsubishi aftersales manager Noel Comerford congratulated Michael and Javan on their performance and challenged them and their Kiwi colleagues to do even better next year.
“Both Michael and Javan performed very well in Japan and proved that Mitsubishi aftersales service in New Zealand is up there with the best in the world. Our customers will no doubt take a good deal of comfort and satisfaction from that.
“These competitions are designed to inspire and upskill. We’ve got some great people in our team and I’m certain they will be challenging themselves and each other to reach the podium next year.” Thirty-nine people from 28 countries competed in a day-long competition of theory tests and practical exercises.
Service technicians had to follow the correct diagnostic process to identify and repair two faults and the test the vehicle. This year’s faults were the engine not starting and erratic wiper speed operation.
Service advisors completed a written exam and a 20-minute roleplay, which included quoting