Students’ trade skills put to the test

THE 2022 WorldSkills Regional Competition is coming to town from this month, with Federation TAFE playing the role of host.

Seeking to achieve recognition as the country’s top young tradespeople, local FedTAFE students, apprentices and trainees will be up against those from further afield.

The next generation of tradespeople will be put to the test in the areas of bricklaying, fitting and turning, cabinetmaking, welding, automotive, and hairdressing.

On Monday, 22 August, 18-year-old FedTAFE student Jonah Maloney-Wise will compete in the welding section.

“I am preparing by doing lots of hours of training and practising to assist in the competition,” he said.

“It takes lots of dedication and excitement for the competition, but it’s a great opportunity to further yourself.

“The course gives me real-world practical skills that will give me much higher job security and a far more diverse and interesting line of work.”

FedTAFE’s director of operations and Ballarat WorldSkills Committee chair Darren Gray said the city has a proud history of medal success at WorldSkills comps, both nationally and internationally over 35-plus years.

“The support from our brilliant teachers, mentors and industry partners is the key to success on the national stage,” he said.

Federation University pro-vice-chancellor vocational education and training and TAFE CEO Liam Sloan said the competition is the perfect opportunity for young people to enhance their skills and learning.

“WorldSkills is a real collaboration between TAFE, industry partners and students to showcase and highlight talent in these in-demand industries,” he said.

WorldSkills initiatives aim to champion, recognise, and highlight the talent and expertise of young tradespeople, their educators, and employers.