2024 Hino National Skills Contest

This year marks the 13th annual Hino National Skills Contest, where some of the most skilled and talented Hino Sales Consultants, Parts Interpreters, and Service Technicians from across Australia come together for the final round.

Every year we’re there to support our guys who compete and cheer them on as they showcase their talents. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and dedication this year.  You did us proud.

Pictured below L-R: Brad Elliott, Nathan Murdoch, John Riley, Luke Dummett, Nick O’Brien, David Jones, Zac Parmeter

As one of the industry’s longest running events of its kind, the Hino National Skills Contest provides an opportunity for individuals across the Hino dealer network to enhance and demonstrate their skillset in their respective fields. The National Skills Contest not only allows Hino staff to put their skills and expertise to the test but it also   provides our customers with the benefits from ongoing staff training and development. With enhanced customer service, product knowledge and technical skills we can ensure customers receive only the highest level of service.

On Thursday 14 November all eighteen finalists from around the country gathered at Hino Headquarters for the final round of skills and knowledge assessments, competing against each other and we couldn’t be prouder to announce John, Luke and Nick taking home well-earned places in their respective departments.  To make it into the top three is a testament to the high standards and superior skills that customers can expect from our Sci-Fleet Hino Sales, Service and Parts team.

The final round for John centred on evaluating his diagnostic and technical abilities through various assessments on the 300 Series Hybrid Electric, as well as the 500 and 700 Series Hino models. Additionally, it tested his problem-solving skills, emphasizing effective communication when addressing remote diagnostic challenges. The assessments included:

• the design and construction of an electrical circuit using supplied components to operate under certain rules.
• tthe installation of a simulated PTO and program to the customer’s requirements, ultimately testing his ability to diagnose problems that do not have a troubleshooting procedure.
• tcomplete a radar calibration on a 300 Series Hino Hybrid Electric vehicle, drawing on knowledge of both DX 3 and the DSS system with measurements needing to be within millimetre accuracy.
• identify issues with an engine assembly, then repair to specifications listed in the workshop manual, challenging their mechanical skills

Nick engaged in a series of real-world roleplay scenarios that depicted the complete lifecycle of a customer’s journey, from test driving to purchasing a Hino vehicle. His testing involved facilitating a customer test drive to simulate the experience of a customer inspecting a vehicle and making initial inquiries. This exercise showcased Nick’s customer service and communication abilities, as he was responsible for interacting with the customer from the initial stage to the vehicle handover, emphasizing our Hino vehicle operations and best practices for delivery.

Luke was required to showcase his expertise through live demonstrations that highlighted his interpretative skills in a customer-focused scenario. This evaluation tested his customer service, communication abilities, and proficiency in sourcing accurate and relevant solutions, including Hino parts. Throughout this role-play exercise, he educated customers on the benefits of Hino and the long-term advantages for the durability of their trucks, all while being closely observed.

From a full day of rigorous assessments, all contestants headed to the official Gala Dinner where the 2024 Skills Champions were crowned. It was a fantastic night where contestants were able to celebrate the day and their achievements and enjoy good food, drinks and conversation with fellow contestants, supporters and the Hino Australia team.

A heartfelt thank you to Hino Australia for providing all Hino employees with access to initiatives like the Hino National Skills Contest. This opportunity enables them to enhance their personal growth and development in their respective fields, while also being recognised for their dedication, accomplishments, and enthusiasm for the industry.