RIVERPARK TRAINING
RIVERPARK APPRENTICE SELECTED FOR UK WORLDSKILLS TEAM FOR WORLD SKILLS SHANGHAI CHINA
A t Riverpark Training, we are has achieved a significant milestone in his career development within the motor industry. The WorldSkills competition is an international event often described as the “skills Olympics”, bringing together young people from around the world to delighted to share the success of another one of our students who compete in a wide range of technical and vocational skills. Competitors are tested against strict international standards, with events designed to reflect real-world industry challenges and the precision expected within professional workplaces. Joe Wilton, who has completed Level 3 training with Riverpark and employed by SDM Paintwork, has successfully secured a place on the UK WorldSkills Team. Joe will represent the UK in the Autobody Repair category at the WorldSkills competition taking place in Shanghai, China, this September. Joe’s selection follows a demanding and highly competitive process, which included competing in the far east in December 2025 during which he demonstrated exceptional technical skill achieving their equivalent of a silver medal. Gaining a place on the UK WorldSkills team is a remarkable achievement and reflects the high standards required to compete at international level. Joe has worked extremely hard alongside his training manager, tutor and employer to reach this stage. His progress is a strong example of what can be achieved when young people are given access to high-quality training, industry support and the opportunity to develop their skills in a real workshop environment.
2026 Recruitment Recruitment has officially begun for 2026 apprenticeships, with strong early interest highlighting both the enthusiasm among young people for a career in the motor industry and the growing need for employers to invest in the next generation of technicians. To date, over 60 future technicians have already been interviewed, demonstrating a healthy pipeline of motivated candidates eager to enter the Motor Industry. We have welcomed this high level of interest but employers need to engage now before these young people seek alternative employment. We are currently seeing a technician drain to the aircraft industry and while that has been futile in the past it represents a problem the Motor Industry needs to deal with. Increased apprentices’ intake is a 3-year programme so planning now will help future staffing issues. Riverpark is working closely with Careers Advisers and Careers Managers across Northern Ireland to ensure school leavers and those seeking new opportunities are fully aware of the pathways available within the motor industry. As part of this outreach, Riverpark recently hosted an open day for Careers Advisers and Managers from the Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon area, giving them the opportunity to see first-hand what training and progression routes are on offer. During the visit, attendees met with 2025 Body Repair students and observed them working within the workshop environment, gaining valuable insight into the practical skills being developed and the high standard of training being delivered. The event highlighted the importance of early engagement with young people and the role
attention to detail and competition readiness this requires additional training out of normal working hours and a special commitment to training to ensure he is fully prepared to perform at the highest standard on the world stage. Joe’s achievement highlights the importance of apprenticeships and employer engagement in developing the next generation of skilled technicians. With support from employers such as SDM Paintwork, apprentices are able to gain not only practical skills but also the confidence and experience required to excel within the industry. We are extremely proud of Joe and look forward to following his journey as he represents both the UK and especially the Northern Ireland Motor Industry at this prestigious international competition.
As a training provider, we are proud to continue supporting Joe as he prepares for the competition. In the
careers professionals play in guiding them towards sustainable, skilled employment.
coming months, our focus will be on further developing his technical ability,
With ongoing skills shortages affecting
Joe Wilton
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