CQU-trained apprentices ready for 2025 WorldSkills competition

By Greg Chapman

Six CQU-trained apprentices are gearing up to prove they’re among the best in the country at the 2025 WorldSkills National competition in Brisbane next week (12-15 June).

The five Gladstone-based apprentices and one Mackay-based apprentice will represent Central Queensland in the categories of Construction Steel Work, Electrical Control, Electrical Installation, Heavy Vehicle Mechanics, Plumbing and Welding.

Two of the competitors, Saxon Smith and Layth McGee, were excited about putting their skills to the test at the competition, which will be held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre over three days, with the winners announced at a special medal presentation ceremony on 15 June.

Saxon said: “I’m very excited, yet anxious at the same time. I’m very curious to see how other electrical apprentices’ skills differ from mine – it’s a very exciting learning opportunity for myself.”

“(I’m) super excited to compete against the best of the best and put my skills to the test,” Layth said.

During the competition the apprentices will be presented with a range of tasks to complete in a certain timeframe, depending on their respective category. 

They might have to find faults in equipment or vehicle, solve a technical problem, or construct parts to specific requirements.

CQU Educational Team Leader for Heavy Automotive Chris Wasiak will also be on site as a judge in the Heavy Vehicle Mechanics category.

The competing CQU-trained apprentices are:

Sean Keetch                     Construction Steel Work

Ashley Cassar                   Electrical Control

Saxon Smith                     Electrical Installation

Corey Burfield                  Heavy Vehicle Mechanics

Layth McGee                    Plumbing

Billy Vale                           Welding

For more information visit the World Skills website.