Shrewsbury bricklayer to represent UK at global ‘skills Olympics’
Joe Shingler has been selected for team UK at this year's WorldSkills
A bricklayer from Shrewsbury is gearing up to represent the UK at the global 'skills Olympics'.
Apprentice Joe Shingler has been selected for team UK at this year's WorldSkills competition in Shanghai.
The international Olympic-style competition sees young professionals from 80 countries compete head-to-head in a high-stakes battle of skill, precision and innovation.
Joe started his apprenticeship at Shrewsbury College when he was 16 and fell in love with the trade.
"I was just 16 and loved every day on site, but I didn't even know anything like this existed," he said.
"If you'd have told me back then that I would be able to compete for my country in China in September I wouldn't have believed you so it's just awesome. I can't wait for it."
As well as building houses, including his own, Joe has created a number of impressive sculptures out of bricks, including a replica of London's Tower Bridge, Calgray Tower in Canada and a wine bottle.
Participants in the bricklaying competition will find out what they have to build on the day, with points docked for every millimetre they are off being level - or "out of plumb".
As well as bricklaying, WorldSkills will also see young people compete in trades such as renewable energy, 3D game design, car painting, health and social care, and chemical laboratory tech.
Joe said it's important that skills, such as bricklaying, are championed and encouraged across the UK.
He said: "Skills across the country, construction skills and all the other skills we're going to compete in in September, need to be pushed and need to be prioritised.
"To young people across the country, I would just say, give it your best shot and you never know where you might end up."
James Staniforth, Principal of Shrewsbury College, said: "Joe is the perfect ambassador for the UK, showcasing the skills we produce, and we will wish him well in the Final.
"He is a fantastic inspiration for our other students and apprentices."
Ben Blackledge, Chief Executive, WorldSkills UK, added: “At a time when employers are sceptical about employing young people, Team UK show just how important it is to have young professionals in the workforce.
"These young technicians have an incredibly valuable mix of world-class technical skills, impressive employability skills, and a mindset for success.
"If we are serious about tackling the NEET challenge, we need to get more young people ready for work, and skills competitions are a proven way to improve engagement in training and work readiness.”
WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 takes place from 22-27 September.