Trevor Schwenke, Chief Executive Officer at WorldSkills Australia, believes skills are the beginning and foundation of Australia’s prosperity.
Across Australia, the demand for skilled talent has never been greater. Every industry from advanced manufacturing and construction to health, hospitality, and emerging technologies is grappling with how to attract, train, and retain the people who will drive our nation’s future prosperity.
At WorldSkills Australia, we see the solution in action every day. Our mission is simple: to inspire, develop and celebrate skills excellence. One of the most powerful ways we achieve this is through our regional competitions, which will return in 2026.
Where tomorrow’s workforce begins
These competitions are the beginning for thousands of apprentices, trainees and students across the country. They provide an opportunity for young people to test their abilities against their peers, benchmark their progress, and discover the thrill of putting their skills on display. For many, it is the first step in a journey that leads to national recognition and, for a select few, the honour of representing Australia on the world stage.
Get involved
Behind every competitor stands an industry partner, a business, an employer, a training provider, a mentor who has provided the guidance, tools and opportunities to make participation possible. Regional competitions are not just about competitors. They’re about industry coming together to support the next generation of talent.
For industry, the benefits are clear. Engaging with WorldSkills at the regional level means visibility among the cohort you will one day employ. It means contributing to a pipeline of skilled professionals who are job ready and equipped with the resilience, problem-solving, and leadership qualities that competition fosters. And it demonstrates to your own workforce that you are committed to lifting standards and investing in the future of your sector.
As we prepare for 2026, we are calling on employers, training providers, and industry leaders to get involved. Whether through sponsorship, providing equipment, hosting events, or encouraging young people to compete, your involvement is critical.
Industry support
Together we can ensure the skills developed in classrooms and workshops are celebrated and valued in workplaces and communities across the nation. By supporting regional competitions, industry has the chance to shape the workforce of tomorrow and to celebrate the extraordinary talent already in our midst.
To stay in touch with WorldSkills Australia, log on to worldskills.org.au.