Preparing for the WorldSkills competition requires structured training, hands-on practice, and a clear understanding of the competition requirements.
Participation in WorldSkills competitions usually starts at a regional or national level and may be open to first-year vocational or university students under the age of 25, depending on the skill area and competition requirements. Successful preparation depends on three factors in particular:
Main specialisations: Factory automation and electronics, mechanics, industrial programming, water treatment processes and technologies, energy engineering and environment.
Effective preparation for the WorldSkills competition depends on having access to the right training equipment. Find out more about the tasks to accomplish during each competition, the official competition equipment that Festo delivers for every skill, as well as our recommended preparation packages. They give students the opportunity to directly experience setup and the expected workflows.
The WorldSkills competition is an international championship for vocational skills in which young upcoming professionals compete in real-world technical disciplines. It is widely recognised as a benchmark for excellence in vocational education and industrial skills.
No. Basic equipment such as PLCs, software, and HMIs is enough to start preparing students for the first level competition. The main system for the competition itself is provided by Festo, such as the MPS for Mechatronics. Depending on the skill area and location, training centres may also be able to borrow equipment or join training camps. It is best to check the technical description for each skill and contact your local Festo representative to enquire about availability.
Festo supports WorldSkills preparation with technical expertise, training equipment, software licences, training for teachers, and local advice, depending on the skill area and country. Support may also include training camps, retrofit options, and equipment rental for selected applications.
Yes. At Festo, we aim to motivate and support students at different stages, from learning basic technical skills to more advanced technologies. With the right coaching and modular training equipment even students in the early stages of technical education can develop practical skills step by step and participate in WorldSkills.
Preparation may take around six to nine months of regular training. This often includes technical practice, teamwork, and preparation to perform under pressure. The exact timeline depends on the skill area, the student’s starting point, and the training format.
Yes. The equipment is not limited to WorldSkills competitions and preparation. It is designed to reflect real industrial applications and meets international occupational standards, so it can also be used in regular teaching on topics such as mechatronics, automation, Industry 4.0, water technology, and renewable energy.
Yes, students can choose their team partner. In practice, it is helpful when teachers support the selection process so they can build a team with complementary strengths in programming and mechanics, to assure collaboration and high performance.
Yes. For many students, taking part in WorldSkills can build confidence, motivation, and practical skills while having an exciting experience on a personal level. Starting at a regional or national level can provide students with a supportive approach to develop technical skills, gain self-confidence and have a real sense of achievement.