Trevor Schwenke, CEO at WorldSkills Australia, joins Landscape Contractor as a regular contributor, keeping us updated on WorldSkills Australia’s activities and successes, building the future, together.
At WorldSkills Australia, we believe skills are the backbone of a thriving economy. From the steady hands of a bricklayer laying the foundations, to the sharp focus of an auto technician under the bonnet, or the precision of an electrician wiring a system to perfection — skills are what keep our country moving forward. But skills don’t develop in isolation. They’re nurtured, refined, and elevated through collaboration. And at the heart of that collaboration is industry.
History
For over 40 years, WorldSkills Australia has championed excellence in vocational education and training. Through skills competitions, training camps, and leadership development programs, we support the next generation of tradespeople to reach their full potential. But we don’t do it alone. We can’t. Our success is built on partnerships with TAFEs, RTOs, governments, communities, and, most critically, with industry.
We know that to truly prepare young Australians for the future of work, we need to be in lockstep with those who are shaping it. Industry knows where the demand is, what skills are evolving, and what excellence looks like on the job. When industry partners with WorldSkills, they help shape the standard. They become part of a national movement to lift capability, instil pride in the trades, and inspire the next generation to pursue excellence.
Get involved
Right now, more than ever, we need that collaboration. Skills shortages, shifting technologies, and changing workforce needs are reshaping our landscape. The best way to navigate that change is by working together, by investing in people, in training, and in partnerships that have real impact.
That’s why we’re inviting industry to be part of this story. Whether through sponsorship, mentorship, or simply engaging with the incredible young talent coming through the WorldSkills network, there are many ways to get involved.
This isn’t just about competitions. It’s about cultivating the future workforce; one that is resilient, adaptable, and equipped to meet the demands of modern industry.
At WorldSkills Australia, we’re building that future. And we’d love you to build it with us. By partnering with us, you’ll play a direct role in shaping skills development in Australia. Your support enables us to engage in vital research, promote skills excellence, build careers, foster international collaboration, and deliver world-class skills competitions and leadership programs. Together, we can create lasting impact—empowering individuals, strengthening industries, and securing Australia’s future workforce.
To learn more of WorldSkills Australia, log on to worldskills.org.au.
