Skills ‘Shoot-Out’ in Shanghai
Two inspirational young professionals from Scotland began the most momentous weeks of their lives when they walked out on the global stage this week in Shanghai.
Stuart Lyons and Charlie Priestley, who face the toughest tests imaginable have been preparing for years to take on the world at the ‘Skills Olympics’.
The are part of a Team UK, selected, trained and honed by WorldSkills UK, young apprentices and professionals taking on 1,400 of their peers to decide gold, silver and bronze medal positions.
Charlie Priestley, aged 21, from Aberdeen, an IT Network Systems Analyst and Mechanical Engineer, Stuart Lyons, also aged 22 from Lanarkshire, have been cheered on by UK Minister for Skills Jacqui Smith, who flew to China to support the team and meet with Chinese officials.
This momentous week in the global spotlight is the culmination of months and years of regional rounds, national finals and exacting team selection processes to ensure that the very cream of the crop rose to the top.
The 28 strong team, are exponents of a wonderfully wide range of different skills disciplines, from Painting & Decorating and plumbing to robotics and renewable energy – essential in the bid to drive efficiency and growth.
Pearson, the lifelong learning company, is the official partner of Team UK for WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.
An Olympic style Opening Ceremony took place on Tuesday night, with honoured guest Premier Li, with the competition reaching a climax on Sunday September 27th, which will be streamed live on YouTube.
More than 600,000 spectators are expected to attend the 4-day event among them dozens of government representatives from around the World.