Six TAFE NSW Mount Druitt students will compete to represent Australia in the nation’s largest vocational skills competition.

TAFE NSW Mount Druitt Signs and Graphics student Caitlin Wilson is among more than 500 vocational students who will compete in Melbourne over three days with their eye on the gold medal and a chance to represent Australia on the world stage in France next year.

WorldSkills hosts regional, national and international competitions which celebrate excellence and showcase vocational educational and training. Winners from the Nationals are in the running to be selected for the Australian Skillaroos team to compete against more than 75 countries. The international championships have run every two years since 1950.

Caitlin, the only female tradie among her fellow Mount Druitt finalists, said that her anticipation was building after months of mentorship by TAFE NSW teachers as she packs her squeegee, knife, and heat gun.

“I’m really looking forward to competing at a national level and networking with the best of the best, both my competitors and industry leaders,” Caitlin said.

“I’m excited for the challenge and the possibility of moving on to compete internationally in France, and I can’t wait to see the high level of talent that up I’m against.

“I’ve been practicing my design and wrapping skills as much as I can so that I’m prepared for anything that might get thrown at me on the day.

“At TAFE, we’ve been focused on honing our light box skills, so I’m also keen to put that to the test against my peers.”

TAFE NSW Executive Director Education and Skills, Mark Hawkins, said “It’s a great honour for these students to not only be recognised for their talents, but also represent their local community in a renowned arena.

“Skilled workers are the backbone of our industries and communities, and WorldSkills competitions bring together the best emerging talent, offering amazing, and potentially life-changing learning opportunities.

“As a training provider, it’s reaffirming that 13 TAFE NSW students from Western Sydney alone have been invited to compete at the National level after outshining some of the best talent at the regional WorldSkills competition,” said Mr Hawkins.

“The ultimate goal for our Western Sydney team, including Caitlin, is to earn a place on the Skillaroos and represent Australia at the WorldSkills Competition in France next year."

The WorldSkills Australia 2023 National Championships will be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 17-19 August.

There are six students from TAFE NSW Mount Druitt who are competing in the National WorldSkills Championships. To arrange interviews and imagery, please contact TAFE NSW Media Team.