Aughnacloy apprentice to compete at Europe’s top skills contest

AN apprentice plumber from Aughnacloy is set to take on the best young professionals in Europe after securing a place on Team UK for Europe’s largest skills competition.

Andrew McCann, who studies Plumbing and Heating at South West College’s Omagh campus and is employed by Anderson Mechanical Services in Loughgall, will travel to Denmark this September to compete on the international stage at EuroSkills Herning 2025.

The competition runs from September 9 to 13 and brings together top apprentices from across the continent in a celebration of vocational excellence.

Andrew’s journey to the European finals follows his standout performance in national skills competitions, earning him selection by WorldSkills UK in partnership with global education company Pearson.

The EuroSkills competition is not only a prestigious event but also a key milestone for those aiming to compete at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 – dubbed the ‘skills Olympics’.

Andrew will continue his intensive training programme ahead of the Denmark showcase, with hopes of making the final cut for the global stage in China next year.

Ben Blackledge, WorldSkills UK chief executive, praised the team’s achievements.

“We are so excited to be supporting and nurturing this fantastic group of young professionals as they head for Denmark to compete.

“They will be tested to the highest standards, showcasing the skills that global employers are looking for, and will return to the UK with the knowledge and experience that will turbo-charge their careers.

“EuroSkills is ultimately a test of how internationally competitive UK skills are.

“It gives us the impetus to raise standards at home and help more young people get high quality jobs.”

John Moss, Head of Department for Sustainability, Construction and Transport at South West College, spoke of the pride felt across the institution.

​​​​​​Mr Moss said, “Andrew’s dedication, skill and commitment are a testament to the high standards of excellence we foster at the college, as well as the outstanding training and support provided by his employer.

“I would also like to acknowledge the invaluable contribution of our dedicated lecturers, whose guidance and encouragement have played a key role in Andrew’s development.

“Andrew’s success not only highlights the strength of our apprenticeship programmes but also brings great pride to the college, his employer and the wider industry.”