More than 30,000 students from more than 300 schools nationwide attended the event which ran from Wednesday to Friday.

The three-day extravaganza of exhibition and competition highlighted the vital role of apprenticeships, technical training, and hands-on skills in shaping Ireland’s future workforce.

Minister Harkin warmly acknowledged the strong presence from Sligo and the North West, which included Vision Built of Tubbercurry.

Represented by Julie Regan and Richard Wigley the company champions modern methods of construction providing exciting opportunities for new apprentices in the sector.

Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Sligo, home to the National Toolmaking Centre, was strongly represented by Ivan O’Reilly, Xavier Velay, Ray Gillen, and Leona Barron.

Dylan Kilgallon, a star joinery student from Dromore West at ATU, attended with his instructor John Joe O’Reilly of Geevagh, who has high hopes that Dylan will represent Ireland at the WorldSkills Olympics in Shanghai in 2026.

“These students, educators, and employers are demonstrating the extraordinary skill, innovation and ambition of our region.

“They are proof that the Northwest is playing a leading role in shaping Ireland’s skilled future,” Minister Harkin said.

Minister Harkin also highlighted the Government’s increased €77 million investment in apprenticeships in Budget 2025, reinforcing Ireland’s commitment to expanding and modernising skills training across sectors – from construction and mechanics to digital and climate-related careers.

Minister Harkin emphasised the importance of skills in driving economic growth and innovation:

“Skills form the backbone of our economy, and this event demonstrates just how vital they are to Ireland’s continued growth and prosperity.

“WorldSkills Ireland shines a spotlight on the diverse and rewarding career paths available to young people – from traditional trades such as construction, engineering, and mechanics to emerging areas like Digital Marketing and ICT. Choosing a skills-based pathway is every bit as valuable and future-focused as the academic route.”

This year’s programme included 180 finalists competing across 35 National Competition Finals in areas spanning engineering, hospitality, ICT, logistics, creative arts, and construction. Visitors are also invited to participate in interactive “Try A Skill” zones, offering students a first-hand taste of potential career paths.

A highlight of the event was the Heroes Stage, where apprentices and industry leaders shared their personal journeys – inspiring young people to see apprenticeships as dynamic, future-proofed routes into thriving careers.