Attending WorldSkills 2024 in Lyon was a transformative experience for the Kirkstall Precision Engineering team, particularly for Cameron Pinder, one of our star apprentices. Having reached the national finals of WorldSkills UK in CNC milling, Cameron’s exposure to this international event was invaluable.
Not only did it give him a sense of the scale of the competition, but it also provided him with insight into what might lie ahead if he succeeds in the national finals in November, potentially paving the way for the next WorldSkills.
WorldSkills a global stage for skills excellence
WorldSkills is often referred to as the ‘Skills Olympics,’ where young professionals from across the globe showcase their technical prowess in various trades. This event, held every two years, draws over 1,500 competitors from more than 65 countries to compete in 62 disciplines.
The competition offers a platform for the best of the best to demonstrate their skills in areas such as engineering, manufacturing, technology, creative arts, and more. This global stage is not only a competition but also a celebration of excellence, where participants push the boundaries of what’s possible in their chosen fields.
Gearing up for WorldSkills UK National Finals
Cameron’s journey to the national finals in November is a proud achievement for him and Kirkstall Precision as well as Leeds City College. As he prepares for the UK competition, attending the international event in Lyon was a significant step in understanding the level of competition and the standards required at the world stage.
The exposure to world-class talent has allowed Cameron to see firsthand what may be required of him if he progresses to WorldSkills 2025.
Cameron said, “Seeing the level of competition at WorldSkills 2024 has given me a better understanding of what’s expected in terms of skill, precision, and attention to detail. It’s inspiring and has motivated me to push myself even further in preparation for the national finals.”
Learning from the WorldSkills experience
The event was not only valuable for Cameron but also for the Kirkstall Precision team as a whole. Observing the techniques, workflows, and innovative approaches from top competitors provided key insights that can be applied to our own operations. The competitions highlighted the level of precision and efficiency needed to thrive in today’s fast-evolving industries.
For Kirkstall, events like WorldSkills are more than just competitions; they’re opportunities to learn and grow as a company. By attending, we had the chance to see what global leaders in precision engineering and manufacturing are achieving and how we can integrate these innovations into our own processes.
Adam Thornton, CEO of Kirkstall Precision Engineering, expressed his pride in Cameron’s achievements and the company’s apprenticeship program. “We are incredibly proud of Cameron’s progress and how far he has come. His dedication to learning and mastering his craft is a testament to the success of our apprenticeship program. Attending WorldSkills 2024 is not just about supporting Cameron, but it’s also about gaining a broader understanding of how we can continue to nurture talent and stay ahead in the industry. The experience in Lyon has been eye-opening, and we’re excited to see Cameron shine in the national finals.”
The importance of apprenticeships and skill development
Kirkstall Precision’s commitment to nurturing young talent through its apprenticeship program is a key pillar of the company’s success. Apprenticeships offer a unique blend of hands-on experience, mentorship, and technical learning that is crucial for developing the next generation of skilled engineers. Cameron’s journey from apprentice to national finalist is a prime example of the opportunities available through programs like WorldSkills.
Manufacturing in the UK is currently facing a significant skills gap, with a shortage of young talent entering the field. Events like WorldSkills help to bridge this gap by encouraging young people to pursue careers in trades and technical professions. By participating in WorldSkills, Kirkstall Precision not only supports the personal development of its apprentices but also contributes to the wider mission of elevating skills in the UK manufacturing industry.
Looking ahead to the National Finals and beyond
As Cameron prepares for the WorldSkills UK national finals, the knowledge and insights gained from Lyon will undoubtedly play a crucial role in his preparation. The team at Kirkstall Precision will continue to support him every step of the way, providing the resources, mentorship, and training necessary to succeed at the highest level.
The potential of representing the UK at WorldSkills 2025 is an exciting prospect, not just for Cameron but for the entire Kirkstall Precision family. It represents the culmination of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence, all values that are deeply embedded in our company culture.
A proud moment for Kirkstall Precision
Attending WorldSkills 2024 has been an incredible experience for Kirkstall Precision Engineering. We’ve seen firsthand the level of excellence required to compete on the world stage, and it’s reinforced our commitment to nurturing the next generation of skilled engineers. As Cameron gears up for the national finals, we are proud to stand behind him, knowing that his journey represents the future of our industry.
For Kirkstall, this is more than just a competition; it’s about empowering young professionals, bridging the skills gap in manufacturing, and continually striving for innovation and excellence.