Warrnambool apprentice to represent Australia at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026

Lachlan King, a carpentry apprentice supported through Apprenticeship Support Australia (ASA) in Warrnambool, is the only carpentry apprentice chosen to represent Australia at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, to be held in September.

Lachlan is employed by Wesvic Staffing Solutions and completed his training through South West TAFE, building his skills in a regional setting before progressing to national and international competition.

His selection follows strong results at every stage of competition, including a Bronze Medal at the 2025 WorldSkills Australia National Championships, earned after placing first at the regional level. 

These results placed Lachlan among the country’s leading emerging tradespeople and secured his place in the Australian WorldSkills team.

WorldSkills competitions are widely regarded as the pinnacle of vocational excellence, requiring competitors to perform complex technical tasks under strict timeframes and international standards. 

WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 will bring together competitors from more than 70 countries and regions, showcasing the very best of global vocational skills. 

Lachlan’s selection places Warrnambool, South West Victoria and Australia’s apprenticeship system firmly on the international stage.

Lachlan’s journey highlights the strengths of the apprenticeship system, particularly the role of employer support and coordinated training pathways. 

His employer, training organisation and support network all played a critical role in enabling him to balance on-the-job work with the intensive preparation required for high-level skills competition.

As an apprenticeship support provider, ASA works closely with apprentices and employers across the region to ensure participants have the guidance, resources and connections they need to progress and succeed.