Motor Mech Arrives in the Free State, Showcasing the Future of South African Automotive Talent

The Motor Industry Workshop Association’s Motor Mech competition will make its first appearance in the Free State on 1 May, hosted at Martie Du Plessis School as part of the long-established Cars in the Park event organised by the OFS Veteran Car Club.

This marks a notable expansion for a programme that has become a national platform for developing young technical talent.

For years the competition has been instrumental in nurturing hands-on mechanical skills among school learners by placing them in authentic workshop scenarios where practical ability matters as much as theoretical knowledge. Dewald Ranft, MIWA National Chairperson, notes that the Free State debut will open opportunities for a new group of learners to gain exposure to industry standards and potential career paths.

Educators have welcomed the event’s arrival in the province. Jan Claassen, Deputy Principal for Skills at Dr Böhmer School of Skills, highlights its importance for learners from LSEN schools, noting that it validates skill-based learning and provides the automotive sector with insight into the capabilities of these learners.

Two Bloemfontein technical schools, Dr Böhmer Technical High School and Louis Botha Technical High School, have already confirmed participation, with MIWA regional representative Jonathan Stanfley encouraging additional schools to join the first Free State edition.

Adding to the event’s appeal, the SpannerTorque Pavilion will feature a variety of industry suppliers, giving students a chance to interact directly with professionals and explore the breadth of careers available in the automotive ecosystem.

Arrive Alive and Bloemfontein Courant both report that the Free State launch brings together heritage motoring and future-focused skills development, positioning the competition as a vital contributor to the country’s automotive talent pipeline. Both outlets emphasise that Motor Mech continues to reinforce the importance of building the next generation of artisans who will support and shape South Africa’s evolving automotive aftermarket sector.

As Cars in the Park draws families and motoring enthusiasts alike, this inaugural Free State competition is set to provide a dynamic stage on which young technicians can demonstrate their potential. For the province, it is a first step into a growing national initiative, and for the learners, it offers a rare opportunity to showcase passion, aptitude and ambition at the heart of a major motoring event.