Automechanika Birmingham has officially recognised the first-ever cohort of its ‘Thirty Under 30’ Awards, honouring the brightest young talent shaping the future of the UK’s £21 billion automotive aftermarket.
Launched earlier this year, the initiative, sponsored by Comma in partnership with the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), attracted over 50 impressive nominations from across the sector. The final shortlist featured emerging leaders from workshops, dealerships, engineering, marketing, product development, sales, and more.
The Thirty Under 30 Awards Ceremony took place on Tuesday 3rd June, on the Motorvate Ignite Arena stage at Automechanika Birmingham. The event drew a strong crowd, with friends, colleagues and industry leaders joining together to celebrate the achievements of these exceptional young professionals.
Agatha Pounds, Marketing Manager at Messe Frankfurt UK, said: “The calibre of entries we received for the first-ever Thirty Under 30 has been truly inspiring. These young professionals are not only achieving incredible things early in their careers – they’re also shaping the future of the automotive aftermarket. From technical innovation to leadership and customer service excellence, the shortlist represents a new wave of ambition, skill and purpose within our industry.”
The finalists represented a wide cross-section of roles and companies – from technicians and apprentices to engineers, entrepreneurs, marketers and senior managers – highlighting the diverse and dynamic career paths available within the automotive aftermarket.
Companies represented in the shortlist ranged from global brands to specialist independents and high-growth start-ups, underlining the broad appeal and opportunity the sector offers to young talent.
