Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD has launched WorldSkills Ireland 2026, a free-to-attend event which showcases the exciting pathways available to students through skills, apprenticeships and traineeships.
WorldSkills Ireland 2026 runs alongside The Irish Times Higher Options at the RDS Simmonscourt, Dublin, from September 16–18, 2026.
Bringing together over 30,000 second-level students, Ireland’s largest event of its kind highlights how skills competitions inspire talent, support workforce development, and showcase innovation across further and higher education. The event also aims to break down outdated stereotypes around apprenticeships and vocational careers, helping students, teachers, guidance counsellors, and parents discover the broad range of opportunities open to young people across Ireland
160 finalists will showcase the very best of their technical skills, knowledge and professionalism as they compete for the coveted DFHERIS Silver Medal for 2026, recognising excellence at Ireland’s national skills competition and the chance to represent Ireland at the 49th WorldSkills Olympics in Japan in 2028.
Meanwhile, the winners of the 2025 National Skills Competitions, which took place at the RDS in Dublin, will represent Ireland this year in 15 skill categories at the 48th WorldSkills International Competition in Shanghai, from 22 - 27 September 2026. The international WorldSkills competition takes place every two years, with Ireland’s national competitions forming part of the pathway to selecting the team that represents the country on the world stage.
Launching the event, Minister Lawless said:
"WorldSkills Ireland highlights the incredible ability and ambition of young people across the country, while demonstrating the important role that apprenticeships, training and practical learning play in supporting Ireland’s future workforce.
"I am delighted to see this event return, bringing together students, parents, teachers, guidance counsellors, employers and education providers to explore the many opportunities available through skills-based careers. The competition showcases some of Ireland’s most talented young people as they demonstrate what can be achieved through hard work, dedication and a commitment to their craft.
"I would like to congratulate all those taking part, as well as the educators, trainers, employers and families who support them."
Minister of State with special responsibility for Further Education, Apprenticeship, Construction and Climate Skills, Marian Harkin TD added:
"WorldSkills opens young people’s eyes to a world of opportunities, showcasing the exciting pathways available through skills, apprenticeships and traineeships. My priority has always been to ensure that every learner can pursue a pathway that reflects their talents, interests and ambitions. WorldSkills Ireland plays a vital role in inspiring young people to explore careers they may never have considered, discover their potential, and find the pathway that is right for them."
Those who register for WorldSkills Ireland 2026 will get the chance to hear from Industry Heroes and rising stars across all industries at the Heroes Stage, engage with employers in recruitment, and see regional opportunities available from the Education and Training Boards, Technological Universities, Universities, and Apprenticeship Consortium Employers.
Commenting on the ongoing significance of the event, Ray English, Chair of WorldSkills Ireland, said:
"Skills and apprenticeships are fundamental to Ireland’s future. They power our economy, strengthen industry and open doors to rewarding careers. WorldSkills Ireland shows young people that practical and technical skills are not a second choice, they are a first-choice route to success."
WorldSkills Ireland 2026 will also showcase for students the use of AI and Virtual Reality Education through the Further Education and Training Village, and the latest sustainable and green technologies with industry showcases.
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 John Sisk & Sons, the Construction Industry Federation, ESB Networks, Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus; sector sponsors Symetri, Fáilte Ireland and SIMI (Society of the Irish Motoring Industry); feature sponsors MTU, Chadwicks, Irish Rail, Cairn and Kerry College; and 28 additional competition sponsors supporting skills across the event, WorldSkills Ireland brings together an extensive network of industry and education partners. The event is also supported by our education partner, the Institute of Guidance Counsellors, alongside the Government of Ireland and SOLAS.
Those wishing to attend are encouraged to register now for what is expected to be the biggest skills event to date.
WorldSkills Ireland 2026 registration is open at Worldskillsireland.ie.
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