Automotive finalists announced ahead of WorldSkills Ireland 2024
Later this month, Ireland’s largest skills event, WorldSkills Ireland 2024, will open its doors at the RDS Simmonscourt, Dublin, promoting trade industry skills and apprenticeship opportunities for young people as they navigate future options following secondary education.
Ahead of the event from 25th-27th September, 172 students and apprentices from across Ireland have been named as competition finalists who will compete on the national stage, 16 of whom will be competing in Automotive & Heavy Vehicle Technology-based competitions that include Automobile Technology, Construction Plant Fitting and Heavy Vehicle Maintenance.
A partnership between Government, Education and Industry, 2024 marks the fourth year of Ireland’s national skills event.
Alongside Automotive and HVT, the event will expose the opportunities on offer through an apprenticeship or skills-based career across a multitude of industries including Construction, Creative Arts, Hospitality and Tourism, ICT, and Manufacturing and Engineering Technology.
Brendan Carr, aged 21 is competing at the upcoming event and commented on choosing a skills-based career: “Choosing an apprenticeship in Heavy Vehicle Maintenance with Wexford Bus has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Instead of going down the traditional university route, I wanted to dive straight into a hands-on career that combined my passion for mechanics with real-world experience. Every day, I’m learning directly from experts in the field, working on vehicles that keep people moving – It’s challenging, but very rewarding.
“There are so many great opportunities out there for those who choose to start their careers through an apprenticeship program. Not only are you earning while you learn, but you’re also gaining practical skills that set you up for a successful future. Competing on the national stage at WorldSkills Ireland in September is an incredible honour, and I’m excited to showcase what I’ve learned and what apprenticeships can offer.”
Committed to promoting excellence in skills and driving economic growth through a skilled workforce, this year’s event is supported by industry leaders across the sector, including SIMI, Volkswagen Group Ireland, Dublin Bus and Bus Eireann.
Alongside the competitions, there will be demonstrations, try out areas, inspiring real-live talks from industry experts, an opportunity to meet employers who are ready to recruit and the chance to view innovative digital tech skills that are the backbone of jobs of the future.