A South Hampshire College Group Apprentice has won the coveted Apprentice Tyre Technician of the Year at the NDTA Tyre Industry Awards.
Louis Townrow, 21, is in the final year of his Level 3 Motor Vehicle Service & Maintenance Technician (Light Vehicle) apprenticeship and was representing his employer HiQ Whiteley at the awards and was one of nine nominees in his category.
The Tyre Industry Awards are presented by the National Tyre Distributors Association (NTDA), with the event taking place at the DoubleTree by Hilton at Stadium MK in Milton Keynes. 2025 marked the 12th year of these prestigious awards, following a longstanding dinner tradition.
Louis was initially surprised by his win. “It was quite a shock … now I look back on it I am proud. I’m thankful for the opportunities I’ve got and have spoken to quite a lot of people from different brands,” he said following the awards ceremony.
Now in the final moments of his apprenticeship, Louis has his sights firmly set on 2026, in which he has plans to obtain his MOT licence and possibly undergo a Level 4 course centred around electric vehicles, with EV technology continuing to be a popular talking point.
Shane Charles, Motor Vehicle Lecturer at South Hampshire College Group, commented on Louis’ contribution in the classroom: “Louis has very impressive mechanical skills and knowledge and is working to improve his electrical knowledge and skills. His attendance and punctuality are both very good, and when he is in college, he works well with his peers and staff during theory and practical sessions. During practical sessions, Louis will often support other learners and share his knowledge where he can, which makes him a valued member of the class.”
For more information on our Level 3 Motor Vehicle Service & Maintenance Technician (Light Vehicle) apprenticeship, please click here.
