Engineering students win Gold awards at WorldSkills UK finals

Two students from Bridgend College in Wales have won Gold awards in this year’s Industrial Robotics WorldSkills UK competition, held in conjunction with factory automation specialists FANUC UK. 

Morgan Leyshon and Aled Gore, both 21, beat over 80 competitors in an eight-month long contest culminating in the live finals held at FANUC’s Open House event in Coventry. Morgan and Aled now have the chance to represent Team UK at the WorldSkills International Industrial Robotics competition in Shanghai, China in 2026.

The finalists were tasked with completing the robot system integration of a cell to load and stack totes on a pallet ready for shipment. The totes had to be loaded with specific numbers of packages of different sizes, 16mm or 19mm thick. 

The project was divided into three stages – setting up the robot and cell, completing the basic task and, if time, attempting an extension task – and was notably more difficult than in previous years, following an increase in the number of applicants and a rise in overall ability. 

Paul Coombes, competition organiser and Head of Technical for FANUC UK, said:“Year on year, the quality of the competitors has grown, and this year was no exception with some great teams making the final. WorldSkills UK is a fantastic initiative, giving the next generation the opportunity to learn more about what a career in industrial robotics can offer. 

“It’s highly rewarding to see the progression of those involved – this year’s marking team actually included some previous international-level competitors, which was great to see.”

Taking part in the WorldSkills UK competition brings a variety of benefits to young people, including increasing their knowledge and skill set, working with industry partners and tackling real-world problems, and increasing resilience and highlighting the importance of teamwork.

Aled and Morgan both study Mechanical Engineering at Bridgend College, in conjunction with Renishaw, and are hoping to pursue careers in the engineering sector once they graduate. 

The winners’ ceremony at Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall was attended by Skills Minister Jacqui Smith.  Ben Blackledge, Chief Executive, WorldSkills UK said: “Being named the best in your skill is a tremendous achievement and reflects the dedication of teachers in our colleges, universities and training providers, who are the bedrock of our skills systems across the UK. Working with our partners across industry and education, we are championing the emerging skills that are critical to drive investment and business growth in the UK.”