Welsh talent makes up over a third of Team UK at EuroSkills
An impressive set of seven highly trained competitors studying in Wales will form part of Team UK at Europe's largest skills competition this September.
Of the 19 individuals selected from across the UK, a remarkable 37% come from Welsh further and higher education institutions, showcasing the nation's growing strength in vocational excellence.
Selected and trained by WorldSkills UK in partnership with Pearson and Inspiring Skills Excellence in Wales, they now face their final months of preparation before taking on Europe's best across a range of technical and vocational disciplines.
Up to 600 talented young participants from all over Europe will compete for European Championship medals in 38 different skills in Denmark.
Let's meet the Welsh contingent...
Tomas Ankers
At just 17, Tomas from Wrexham is the Welsh team's youngest competitor and is competing within the metalwork and manufacturing industry. He works and studies at Electroimpact and Coleg Cambria.
He said: 'Working as an apprentice alongside doing the competitions has hugely benefitted me. I'm really enjoying learning new techniques and gaining so much experience in a high-pressured but supportive environment.'
Yuliia Batrak
Since moving from Ukraine three years ago, Yuliia, who lives in Colwyn Bay, has made an extraordinary impression, winning two Gold medals at Skills Competition Wales and WorldSkills UK.
The 19-year-old is based at Grwp Llandrillo Menai (Coleg Llandrillo) and will compete in the restaurant services category.
She said: 'Winning a gold medal at the WorldSkills UK was the best moment of my life. The opportunities I've been given include work experience at the Ritz and Gleneagles and I can't wait to represent Wales at the European finals.'
Evan Klimazsewski
Evan, aged 18, from Holyhead, studies at Grŵp Llandrillo Menai and is an apprentice at Lockheed Martin. He won Gold in both Welsh and UK competitions and will compete in electronics.
He said: "Being an apprentice has given me invaluable skills which have been crucial in training for the competition. I'm excited to see how I measure up against competitors from across Europe.'
Melody Cheung
Melody, 19, began her journey with a Bronze medal at Skills Competition Wales last year before being selected for Team UK. Hailing from Abergwynfi, she is studying at Bridgend College and will be competing in graphic design.
She said: 'Being selected was a surprise, but I'm thrilled, and it just goes to show you shouldn't ever give up on yourself. The competitions have helped me handle pressure and improve my technical skills.'
Luke Roberts
From silver in Skills Competition Wales to Highly Commended nationally, Luke's progress has been rapid. The 18-year-old from Haverfordwest studies at Pembrokeshire College and works with Haven Engineering. He will compete in welding.
He said: 'Skills competitions have built my confidence and broadened my experience. College and work have been a huge support, and it's a great thing to have on my CV. I'm really looking forward to making Wales proud.'
Finn Gallagher
Finn's journey started just 18 months ago after responding to an advert for the qualifiers for the UK nationals. Placing joint third, he was selected for EuroSkills. Aged 19, from Salisbury, he attends Cardiff University and will be competing in web technologies.
He said: 'I've been able to network with people from lots of different industries who are equally passionate about their trade. This experience has also helped me land a part-time job and an internship, which is fantastic for my career."
Gabrielle Wilson
Competing over two years, Gabi, 20, was recognised with a Highly Commended award at the UK finals for her hard work and dedication. Hailing from Rhayader, she attends NPTC Group of Colleges and will compete in cooking.
She said: 'I'm proud to represent both my college and Wales. Competing has really helped me with time management and organisation, but my favourite part is learning new skills and seeing the standard of competition up close.'
Competitions in Wales are delivered by Inspiring Skills, a Welsh Government-funded initiative dedicated to promoting vocational excellence. Through Skills Competition Wales and international training support, it helps young people develop world-class skills, gain confidence, and represent Wales on the global stage.
For these Welsh competitors, EuroSkills Denmark is not only a once in a lifetime opportunity but also a vital stepping stone toward the ultimate stage – WorldSkills Shanghai in 2026, often dubbed the 'skills Olympics'.
To start your skills competition journey, or to support as an employer or mentor, visit inspiringskills.gov.wales
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