WorldSkills has established itself as a global movement dedicated to transforming the lives of young people through the power of skills. Operating in conjunction with member organisations and global partners, the organisation runs skill competitions, projects, and conferences designed to create measurable impact at every level. The core mission is to raise the profile and recognition of skilled professionals, demonstrating how essential skills are for achieving economic growth and improving our world. For 75 years, WorldSkills has placed skills on the global stage, with a history that traces back to its founding idea and its evolution into a worldwide movement.
The organisation’s activities are supported by a network of partners who see a vital role for industry, education, government, and policymakers in collaborating to elevate the status of skilled individuals. Together, these partners work to increase the abilities, status, and economic prospects of young people globally. A key component of this effort is the WorldSkills Museum in Shanghai, China, alongside an online archive, which collectively showcase how skills have historically transformed lives and economies across the world.
At the heart of WorldSkills’ work are its competitions, which are regarded as the gold standard of skills excellence. These events are designed to inspire competitors to reach new heights, helping them turn their passion into a profession. The competitions serve as a platform for showcasing talent and fostering a community dedicated to skill development.
A comprehensive list of historical and upcoming WorldSkills Competitions is available, detailing specific dates and locations. The list includes events spanning several decades, from the early 1950s through to planned future competitions. For instance, the most recent listed competition took place from 22 to 27 August 2019, while future events are scheduled for September to November 2022 (noting that this event was cancelled), 10-15 September 2024, and 22-27 September 2026. The detailed chronology of past competitions includes numerous dates from the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s, providing a historical record of the organisation’s global presence.
The information provided is sourced directly from the official WorldSkills websites, which detail the organisation’s mission, partnerships, historical archive, and competition schedule. These sources represent the primary and most reliable channels for information about WorldSkills programmes and events.