WorldSkills Ireland, the country’s largest skills and apprenticeship event, opens its doors today at the RDS Simmonscourt, Dublin, welcoming more than 30,000 students from over 300 schools nationwide. Running from 17-19 September, the three-day event is a celebration of skills, apprenticeships, and career opportunities, inspiring the next generation of Ireland’s workforce.
Now a cornerstone in the school calendar, WorldSkills Ireland 2025 provides a hands-on, inspirational experience for young people exploring pathways beyond traditional academia.
This year’s highlight sees 180 finalists go head-to-head in 35 National Competition Finals spanning construction, engineering, ICT, hospitality, logistics, automotive, creative arts, and more. The live competitions not only showcase the high standard of talent and ambition among Ireland’s apprentices and students, but also shine a light on the essential role skills play in building a future-ready workforce.
Speaking about WorldSkills Ireland, Minister Lawless said: “WorldSkills Ireland is more than a competition – it’s a national showcase of talent, ambition, and opportunity. It offers students, parents, and teachers a hands-on chance to engage directly with employers and education providers from across the country. At a time when skills are in such high demand across multiple industries, WorldSkills Ireland showcases the wide range of career opportunities available to young people, highlighting practical pathways into apprenticeships.
“Today, you can become a social worker, civil engineer, or ICT professional through the apprenticeship route – roles that were once only accessible through traditional higher education. These pathways now offer real earning power, internationally recognised qualifications, and sustainable careers.
“WorldSkills Ireland is helping to shift perceptions. It’s a celebration of the skilled trades and professions that keep Ireland moving – and a reminder that investing in skills is investing in our future. The event underlines how these careers are not second-best, but first-choice options for a new generation ready to shape the future of our economy.”
Opening the show, Minister Harkin added: “Skills form the backbone of our economy, and this event demonstrates just how vital they are to Ireland’s continued growth and prosperity. WorldSkills Ireland shines a spotlight on the diverse and rewarding career paths available to young people – from traditional trades such as construction, engineering, and mechanics to emerging areas like Digital Marketing and ICT that are shaping our future economy. With employers across every sector crying out for skilled talent, the return of WorldSkills Ireland could not be more timely. It provides a unique opportunity to inspire the next generation, connect them directly with industry, and demonstrate that choosing a skills-based career is every bit as valuable and future-focused as pursuing a more traditional academic route.”
Students attending will hear from Industry Heroes and rising stars on the Heroes Stage, meet employers actively recruiting new talent, explore opportunities from Ireland’s Education and Training Boards, Technological Universities, Universities, and Apprenticeship Consortium Employers, and experience cutting-edge learning through AI, Virtual Reality, and green technology showcases in the Further Education and Training Village.
Speaking on the opening day, Ray English, Chair of WorldSkills Ireland, said: “Skills remain at the very heart of Ireland’s economic success. As we mark the fifth year of WorldSkills Ireland, it is clear that this event has grown into a cornerstone of the national education and career calendar, helping to reshape how young people, parents, and educators view skills-based pathways. Each year, the event has expanded its reach and impact, and in 2025 we are proud to bring together education, industry, and government once again to inspire and equip students with the knowledge, insights, and confidence they need to shape their futures. The momentum behind WorldSkills Ireland demonstrates the value of collaboration in tackling the skills gap and ensuring Ireland remains competitive on the global stage.”
WorldSkills Ireland is a Government and all-industry initiative, working hand in hand to deliver the solution to Ireland’s skills shortage. Backed by leading industry partners including SISK, Construction Industry Federation and ESB Networks; sector sponsors including SIMI (Society of the Irish Motoring Industry) and Fáilte Ireland; and education partner, the Institute of Guidance Counsellors, the event is also supported by the Government of Ireland and the National Apprenticeship Office (NAO).
WorldSkills Ireland 2025 takes place at the RDS Simmonscourt, Dublin, from 17-19 September, running alongside Higher Options. Entry is free, but registration is required atwww.worldskillsireland.ie – a must-attend event for students, parents, and educators shaping Ireland’s future careers.
