Adam Morgan from Cardiff has been named in the WorldSkills Australia national training squad – the first step towards representing Australia at the 48th WorldSkills International Competition in Shanghai, China, in September 2026.
Mr Morgan, 21, a fourth-year air-conditioning and refrigeration mechanic who trains at TAFE NSW Maitland, will join 39 of the country’s top apprentices, trainees, and young professionals who excelled at the WorldSkills Australia National Championships in Brisbane earlier this year.
Over the next 12 months, squad members will undergo intensive training and assessment, with only some selected for the final team to compete against more than 1,400 peers from over 60 countries.
Mr Morgan, who works for Clement’s Air-Conditional and Refrigeration in Rutherford, said the prospect of representing his nation in Shanghai was potentially “life-changing”.
“I’ve never travelled overseas and to have the opportunity to be in Shanghai with my employer and family cheering me on would be massive,” he said.
“My TAFE NSW teachers have mentored me for this from the very beginning and have put in a lot of after hours time.
“They’ve ensured the whole journey has gone as smoothly as possible and I’m so excited about what’s ahead.”
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan congratulated the nine TAFE NSW students and graduates named in the national training squad.
“These outstanding individuals have proven themselves among the best in the nation and now have the chance to earn a place on the Australian team for Shanghai. They are a credit to NSW and to our vocational education and training system,” Mr Whan said.
TAFE NSW Managing Director Chloe Read said she was proud to see TAFE NSW talent on the national stage.
“WorldSkills is a launchpad for excellence, resilience, and the promotion of skills-based careers. TAFE NSW looks forward to supporting our competitors and experts, and celebrating their success along the way,” Ms Read said.
IMAGE | Cardiff air-conditioning and refrigeration apprentice Adam Morgan
