AITC students to compete amongst the best

This year’s competitors from the AITC, an industry-based senior school, include students Levi Ehue (16) and Ryan Thomsen (16) who will both represent their state in the electrotechnology trade, whilst Brayde Turrall-Poulter (16) will compete in plumbing.

The students will all compete at the TAFE Queensland Alexandra Hills campus, where they regularly attend their trade training. The trio are all eager to showcase their trade skills and will be supported by their college, family and friends.

Brayde said he feels privileged to be part of WorldSkills National Championships and looks forward to competing.

“The judges will no doubt be looking for precision. It will be important to take my time through the challenges and just make sure that everything is done properly and not rushed,” he said.

The Championships, often likened to the Olympics of Trades, were originally postponed in 2020 due to impacts relating to COVID-19. The extra time has given competitors more training time to perfect their skills and ready themselves ahead of competing on a national stage.

This year over 400 competitors from 34 Australian regions will vie for the title of ‘National Champion’ in simulated work environments during the championships. Competitors will be competing in a range of different skills areas including hairdressing, bricklaying, fashion, plumbing, heavy vehicle mechanics, electrical installation, information technology, retail butchery and cookery — just to name a few.

Head of Industry Education at the AITC Eliza Lane said the they are extremely proud of our three young people from the Redlands, as the competition provides an incredible opportunity to celebrate their developed skill sets and compete in their industry area.

“It’s an experience of a lifetime where young people will form friendships, showcase their passion and develop new networks that will extend well into their future,” Ms Lane said.

“In recent weeks our young people have been working hard, honing their skills and preparing for the national competition.”

“When young Australians compete in the WorldSkills competition, whether it’s at regional, national or international competitions – they’re fostering communication, teamwork, organisation and leadership skills. They’re empowering themselves with the most elite skillset they possibly can, and preparing for future success, whatever careers path they eventually travel,” she finished.

Queenslanders who are successful at the National Championships may be asked to travel to Shanghai, China to compete as part of the Australian Skillaroos Team. The 46th WorldSkills International Competition is planned to be held in August 2022.

To follow the competition visit the WorldSkills Australia website or to find out how you can get involved, call the WorldSkills Queensland Office on 07 3244 0230.