After being shortlisted earlier this year, Tom Morris, Bridgwater & Taunton College student, has been announced as the winner of the IMI (Institute of the Motor Industry) Full Time Student of the Year 2023!

Steve Nash, the CEO of IMI, broke the news at IMI’s Annual Dinner and Awards. The award seeks to recognise the outstanding contributions made by both individuals and organisations toward the work of the IMI and the development of the motor industry as a whole.

The event was held at the InterContinental Ballroom in London, and was hosted by Nina Hossain, known for presenting ITV News. The evening hosted guest speakers such as Wayne Barnes, a referee for Six Nations Rugby.

Tom, after receiving his award, said:

It was just an amazing feeling! It came as a bit of a surprise, and normally I’d think something like this wouldn’t happen to me, but then the one time it does… it’s quite a shock. It’s made me feel such a sense of pride.

Tom’s achievements during his Light Vehicle Maintenance & Repair Diploma was recognised by his teacher, Jak Titchener, who nominated Tom. His accomplishments landed him in the final shortlist, and eventually led to his success.

Jak, reflecting on the events of the night, said:

I am absolutely elated for Tom, and as a lecturer feel proud of him. This is also both a huge personal achievement, and a huge achievement for the college. I would love for all students – not just Automotive – to look at this moment and realise that with effort comes opportunity, with opportunity comes success, and with success comes living your dreams.

To further add to such an eventful night, Tom was then awarded the FMI (Fellowship of the Motor Industry) Outstanding Achiever Award, which included a bursary toward his future development. Tom will continue his studies on our Taunton campus, and was invited along with Jak to visit IMI HQ in Hertford by Steve Nash, CEO.

IMI have commented:

We want to congratulate our incredible winners and finalists at the IMI Awards 2023! This is a huge achievement, and we’d like to say a big well done to everyone nominated and thank you for taking the time to do so.

To learn more about BTC’s range of Automotive courses, visit www.btc.ac.uk or call Information & Guidance on 01278 441234.