Two Pembrokeshire College learners are set to represent the UK at the WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai 2026, following their success in national skills contests.
Beauty therapy learner Erin Owens and welder Luke Roberts will now join an intensive 18-month training programme with the hope of being selected for the team that will represent the UK at WorldSkills Shanghai in autumn 2026.
It is the first time China has hosted the prestigious WorldSkills competition known as the ‘skills olympics’. The event will see 1,500 young people travel to Shanghai from over 80 counties to compete in technical skill disciplines from engineering, manufacturing and technology through to creative, digital and hospitality, in front of an audience of 250,000.
On making it through to Squad UK, Luke said:
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“I am excited about the opportunity ahead and eager to contribute. I have already commenced my training with Carl Parish in Wrexham, and with the high-quality training I received at Pembrokeshire College, combined with my experience at Haven Engineering, I am confident in my ability to handle any tasks assigned to me.
“It’s a huge honour to be selected to compete, I’m looking forward to the journey ahead,” he added.
Attended by government representatives, educationalists and leading employers from across the globe, the WorldSkills competition is considered by global experts as the ultimate test of a nation’s ability to meet future skills needs.
Pembrokeshire College has a long history of learners making it through to UK Squad training, with carpenter Chris Caine and chef Sam Everton making it through to the World Finals in Russia in 2019 where they were both highly commended in their respective competitions.
College Principal Dr Barry Walters said:
“We are exceptionally proud of Erin and Luke for earning their place in Squad UK—a testament to their talent, dedication, and hard work.
“This opportunity to compete at the highest level is not just about showcasing their skills but about pushing boundaries, embracing challenges, and striving for excellence. As they embark on this intensive journey towards the world finals, they carry with them the spirit of our College, inspiring others to dream big and achieve even bigger.
“We wish them every success!”