WorldSkills Ireland Returns to Inspire Next Generation of Talent and Address National Skills Shortages
As a growing number of students seek practical, skills-based pathways to build their future, WorldSkills Ireland is back from 17-19 September 2025 at the RDS, Dublin, to inspire and educate the next generation with real-world opportunities beyond the traditional academic route.
In 2024, an unprecedented 75% of student attendees came to WorldSkills Ireland to explore real alternatives to university, underscoring a powerful shift in how young people view their future.
In response to this growing demand, WorldSkills Ireland 2025 plays a key role in addressing the widening skills shortage. As a vital platform for promoting practical, future-focused career paths, the event helps to close the information gap around apprenticeships, skills training, and vocational opportunities, many of which are in high demand across many industries, such as construction, engineering, ICT, hospitality, logistics, and the creative arts. Crucially, the event highlights the breadth of positive, rewarding, and sustainable careers available to young people today, challenging outdated perceptions and championing the value of hands-on, skills-based professions.
Through live demonstrations, competitions, industry talks, immersive experiences, and direct engagement with employers, the three-day event equips students, educators, and parents with the knowledge they need to confidently consider careers through apprenticeships, Further Education and Training, and technical professions.
“As more students look beyond the traditional third-level route, WorldSkills Ireland has become a crucial platform for informing and inspiring the next generation,” says Ray English, Co-Chair of WorldSkills Ireland. “This event doesn’t just tell them about opportunities, it shows them. Through live experiences, real conversations, and exposure to exciting industries, students walk away with real, achievable alternatives to traditional academic routes. It’s about opening doors, building confidence, and showing that success doesn’t only come from a university degree.”
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, education partner, the Institute of Guidance Counsellors, and supported by the Government of Ireland and Apprenticeship Ireland, the event will showcase the depth and diversity of skills-based careers available today.
Event features:
- 33 Live National skills competitions, showcasing Ireland’s top emerging talent
- ‘Try a Skill’ interactive zones offering students a chance to explore trades and technical professions up close
- Virtual reality exhibits and immersive cutting-edge demonstrations
- Talks from industry leaders across creative, digital, health, technical, and vocational fields
- #ThisIsFET Zone showcasing the huge number of apprenticeships that are currently on offer across Ireland, including access to new progressive pathways through further education and higher education through tertiary courses
- Career advice, apprenticeship information, and pathways for school leavers
WorldSkills Ireland 2025 will run concurrently with the Irish Times Higher Options event, offering unmatched value for schools, with students gaining exposure to both academic and vocational opportunities – all in a single visit.
With a mission to inspire and encourage the next generation to follow their passions, interests and talents, WorldSkills Ireland 2025 is committed to promoting excellence in skills and driving economic growth through a skilled workforce. For more information or to register, visit: www.worldskillsireland.ie or follow WorldSkills Ireland on social media.
