Career news

Trade Olympics
by Helen Isbister, 11 July 2008

500 young Australians at the top of their trade are going for gold at the 2008 WorldSkills National Competition.

Taking place every two years, sparks literally fly as 60 000 people turn out to watch contestants vie for a national title in their trade or skill.

Competition is fierce across 50 categories, ranging from construction steelwork, plumbing, autobody repair, cabinet making, hairdressing, cookery and graphic arts.

Contestants have earned their spot in the national arena by knocking out thousands of hopefuls in gruelling regional and state competitions.

Entrants are judged on speed, accuracy, technique, and creativity, with the best in show taking home a medal and a ticket to the International WorldSkills competition in Canada in 2009.

And the Aussie chances are good, with us ranked at number five in the world.

National finalists also have a range of international scholarships available for them, so they can go global with their career.

With a shortage of more than 200 000 skilled workers expected over the next five years, now is the time to jump in and secure your future.



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