In this episode, Sam Street catches up with Australia’s automotive repair Skillaroos as they prepare to take on the world at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.
WorldSkills Australia General Manager Brigitte Collins explains how the organisation has spent more than 40 years promoting skilled careers and giving young Australians the chance to test themselves against the best in the world.
WorldSkills experts Paul Polverino and Cameron Killen join vehicle painter Sam Shedden and autobody repairer Jack Richards to talk about their journeys from regional and national competitions to the international stage, the enormous amount of training involved and the support of employers, TAFE, industry and suppliers along the way.
We also hear what it takes to compete at international level, how rival paint companies put competition aside to support the Skillaroos and why WorldSkills can be just as valuable for employers as it is for the young people taking part.
With Shanghai just around the corner, it’s a behind-the-scenes look at two talented young repairers preparing to represent Australia on the world stage.