Tasman’s journey from the workshop to the world stage
Tasman Henry is preparing to take his skills as a TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech apprentice to the international spotlight after being selected to represent Australia at the WorldSkills International Competition in Shanghai.
Tasman will compete in Industrial Control, joining the nation’s top young trades and technical professionals as part of Team Australia, known as the Skillaroos. The prestigious event, to be held from 22 - 27 September 2026, will bring together more than 1,400 competitors from over 70 countries, making it the world’s largest celebration of vocational excellence.
For Tasman, the journey to the world stage has been driven by passion, dedication and a deep respect for his trade.
Representing TAFE Queensland - SkillsTech Acacia Ridge as an electrical apprentice studying his Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (UEE30820), Tasman credits his career path to family inspiration and a desire to build a meaningful, hands-on career.
“A trade isn’t a second option to university, it’s an alternative that’s just as valuable,” he said.
“I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and solving problems. Competing at WorldSkills has shown me just how far those skills can take you.”
Tasman’s selection follows an outstanding performance at the WorldSkills Australia National Championships, where he tested his technical ability under pressure against the best in the country.
Now part of an elite national team after achieving a 2025 National Bronze Medal, he will undertake intensive training in the lead-up to the global competition, refining both his technical precision and competitive mindset.
Tasman’s preparation for Shanghai has been further strengthened through his recent success at the WorldSkills Australia Global Skills Challenge (GSC), held in Wollongong, NSW. Designed as a key international benchmarking event ahead of the WorldSkills International Competition, the GSC brought together more than 400 competitors and experts from 16 countries across 35 skill disciplines. Competing against some of the world's leading young tradespeople, Tasman delivered an exceptional performance under international competition conditions, earning a Gold Medal in Industrial Control.
His achievement highlighted both his technical capability and determination, while reinforcing the quality of training, mentorship and industry support provided through TAFE Queensland.
Tasman is part of a small group of Queensland competitors chosen for Team Australia, showcasing the strength of the state’s vocational education and training sector and the career opportunities it creates.
TAFE Queensland - SkillsTech plays a vital role in supporting students like Tasman, equipping them with industry-relevant skills and real-world experience that can reach the international stage.
Through quality training, expert mentorship and access to world-class facilities, students are empowered to push boundaries and achieve great things in their chosen fields.
As Tasman prepares to represent Australia in Shanghai, he hopes his journey will inspire other Queenslanders to consider a pathway in trades and technical careers.
“WorldSkills has opened doors I never imagined,” he said.
TAFE Queensland - SkillsTech congratulates Tasman on his remarkable achievement and wishes him every success in his journey as he takes on the world with his skills while flying the flag for Australia and showcasing the Queensland spirit.
“It’s an incredible opportunity to learn, grow and represent your country doing something you love with fellow Queenslanders.”