The journey from a local SkillsUSA chapter can lead all the way to the world stage. WorldSkills is the premier international competition for skilled professionals, where the best young talent from more than 80 countries and regions gathers every two years to demonstrate technical excellence, innovation, teamwork, and professionalism. Often referred to as the "Olympics of Skilled Trades," WorldSkills represents the highest level of achievement in career and technical education. For Tennessee students, earning a place on Team USA is one of the greatest honors possible; an opportunity to represent both our state and our nation while competing against the very best in the world.

The History of WorldSkills

WorldSkills began in 1950 as a small vocational skills competition between Spain and Portugal. Created in the years following World War II, the competition was designed to inspire young people to pursue skilled careers while addressing the growing demand for highly trained workers needed to rebuild economies and strengthen industries.

As interest grew, additional European countries joined the movement, transforming the event into an international competition dedicated to promoting excellence in career and technical education. The competition expanded beyond Europe in 1970, when Tokyo hosted the first WorldSkills Competition outside the continent. Today, WorldSkills includes more than 80 member countries and regions, making it the world's largest international skills competition.

Held every two years, the WorldSkills Competition showcases the highest level of technical and vocational excellence across dozens of skill areas. More than a competition, WorldSkills brings together industry leaders, educators, governments, and young professionals to advance workforce development, establish global industry standards, and inspire the next generation of skilled professionals.

Since 1973, SkillsUSA has served as the official United States member organization of WorldSkills International, selecting and preparing Team USA competitors to represent the nation on the global stage. Through outstanding performances at the SkillsUSA Championships, Tennessee students have earned the opportunity to compete among the world's very best skilled professionals.

For Tennessee students, the journey to WorldSkills begins in the classroom, continues through the SkillsUSA Championships at the state and national levels, and can ultimately lead to representing both Tennessee and the United States on the world stage.

Representing Tennessee. Competing for the United States.

WorldSkills is the largest international skills competition in the world, often referred to as the “Olympics of Skilled Trades.” Every two years, top young, skilled professionals from across the globe compete to demonstrate technical excellence, innovation, teamwork, and professionalism.

SkillsUSA serves as the official United States member organization of WorldSkills International and manages the WorldSkills USA Team. Tennessee students have earned the opportunity to represent both our state and our nation through outstanding performances in SkillsUSA Championships.

WorldSkills Shanghai 2026

September 22-27, 2026 | Shanghai, China

The 2026 WorldSkills Competition will bring together competitors from around the world to showcase excellence in skilled trades and technical education.

Learn More About WorldSkills ↗

Tennessee on the World Stage

SkillsUSA has selected Evan Chow and James Sutherland, both of Knoxville, Tennessee, as the official United States competitors in the two-person Mechatronics competition for the 2026 WorldSkills Competition.

Chow and Sutherland attended Roane State Community College, earned the title of 2025 Tennessee College/Postsecondary Mechatronics State Champions, and went on to become national bronze medalists at the SkillsUSA Championships. Both are employed by DENSO Manufacturing in Maryville, Tennessee.

About Mechatronics

Mechatronics combines mechanical systems, electrical and electronics systems, fluid power, automation, controls, robotics, troubleshooting, and teamwork. Competitors must understand complex integrated systems and work efficiently under pressure.

Meet Tennessee’s WorldSkills USA Team

Evan Chow

Roane State Community College
DENSO Manufacturing
Mechatronics Competitor

Evan brings a background in mechanical engineering, computer science, robotics, and automation to the WorldSkills stage.

James Sutherland

Roane State Community College
DENSO Manufacturing
Mechatronics Competitor

James brings strengths in electrical and mechanical systems, technical problem solving, and high-pressure competition preparation.

How Students Reach WorldSkills

Local SkillsUSA Chapter
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State Leadership & Skills Conference
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National Leadership & Skills Conference
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National Medalist
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WorldSkills USA Selection
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WorldSkills Competition

Tennessee’s WorldSkills Success

Tennessee has continued to demonstrate excellence on the national and international skills stage. Roane State’s Gabriel Eady earned the Best in Nation Award in Mechatronics, and Tennessee’s continued success reflects the strength of our students, instructors, institutions, and industry partners.

Why WorldSkills Matters

Global Competition

WorldSkills brings together competitors from around the world to demonstrate excellence in skilled trades and technical fields.

Industry Driven

Competition standards are shaped by industry experts and reflect world-class workforce expectations.

Workforce Excellence

WorldSkills raises the profile of skilled professionals and highlights the importance of career and technical education.

Learn More

WorldSkills International ↗
WorldSkills USA ↗
Support WorldSkills USA ↗
Explore SkillsUSA Competitions

WorldSKILLS 2024 Conference

Roane State's Gabriel Eady Mechatronics-Best in Nation Award