TAFE NSW student, and Armidale local Nikita Wells, is preparing to put her skills to the test when she competes at the WorldSkills Australia 2025 National Championships in Brisbane this month.
Nikita is one of seven of talented students from TAFE NSW Tamworth who have qualified for the national competition, which brings together the best emerging trades and skills talent from across the country. WorldSkills competitions celebrate excellence in vocational education and training through regional, national, and international events. National winners will be in the running to represent Australia as part of the Skillaroos team at the WorldSkills International Competition next year.
Hundreds of vocational students will compete in Brisbane over three days, all aiming for gold and the opportunity to showcase their skills on the global stage in Shanghai in September 2026.
Nikita Wells, who works at Cooper and Co in Armidale, said the journey to the National Championships has been one of growth and discovery. She said the upcoming competition marks the culmination of months of mentorship and hands-on practice with TAFE NSW teachers.
“I’ve learnt so much through this whole experience – I’ve been training on all my days off with my teacher to prepare,” Nikita said.
“Winning would mean the world to me. I really struggled to find my thing for a while, and now I’ve found it,” she said.
“I’m proud of how far I’ve come and can’t wait to show what I can do.”
Nikita joins six other students from Tamworth TAFE to compete at the event. Chloe Cox will compete in Beauty Therapy, Hayden Michalski in Cabinetmaking, Justin Roberts in Carpentry, Ryan Hunt in Construction Steel Work, Mitchell Bowen in Turning, and James Gallagher in Welding.
TAFE NSW Managing Director, Chloe Read praised the students’ dedication and talent.
“These incredibly skilled New England students earned their place in the Nationals after excelling at the regional WorldSkills competition, with the ultimate goal of representing Australia on the international stage next year,” Ms Read said.
“WorldSkills provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students to test their limits and build their confidence, teamwork, and practical skills with the help of their teachers and mentors.”
“The competition provides a powerful platform for students like Nikita to demonstrate their capabilities in their chosen field, connect with industry, and boost their careers – and we’re proud to support them as they take this next big step.”
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said the success of TAFE NSW students at WorldSkills highlights the strength of the state’s vocational education and training system.
“These students are a shining example of the incredible pipeline of talent we’re delivering through quality vocational education and training across the state,” the Minister said.
The WorldSkills Australia 2025 National Championships will be held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from 12-14 June.
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