Meath apprentices take on worlds best
Two Meath apprentices are pitting their skills against other apprentices from around the world as they take in the World Skills Games which commenced in Brazil today.
David Morgan from Rathmolyon and Andrew Bushe from Enfield were both selected for the Irish team to compete in the games and departed for Sao Paolo on Friday.
David (22) is competing in the carpentry competition, while Andrew is taking part in the automobile technology section.
Both Andrew and David won the national title in their trades and were chosen to represent Ireland after performing well in the subsequent interviews.They havecompleted 10 weeks of training in preparation for the competition, which will last for four days.
David, who is competing against 22 other carpenters, explained that he will be assessed on a 22-hour exam and will be making a roof structure for a gazebo.
A past pupil of Kill National School, Rathmolyon, and Boyne Community School, Trim, David served his time with R&A Wood Designs Wood Products in Rathmolyon and recently completed his apprenticeship. He now works with P&L Carpentry in Kildalkey.
Andrew is a past pupil of Baconstown NS and went to secondary school at Scoil Dara, Kilcock. He has three years of his apprenticeship done with his father’s business, G Bushe Motors, based in Inchicore, Dublin.
Andrew’s skills will be tested across five modules, including engine rebuilding, gearbox rebuilding, body electrics, engine management and steering, suspension and brakes.
A total of 1,200 apprentices from all around the world are in Sao Paolo for the games, which run from 11th-16th August.
The Minister for Skills, Research and Innovation, Damien English TD, wished the very best of luck to the 14 young apprentices, trainees and students, who are in Sao Paulo this week.
He said: “The World Skills competition is an opportunity for our team members to showcase the skills set and talent that Ireland has to offer in a globally competitive environment. I have met the team and they’re a really talented and impressive bunch of young people who are going for gold. I know they will do us proud.”