Royal Air Force

Training Manager for Stewart Wright

Key responsibilities

NVQ development for Aeronautical Engineering and ensuring that it is recognised for the skill that it is.

How long have you been a training manager?

I am new this year!

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

Seeing the development in competition and the competitors.

Your thoughts about the Team

It’s a privilege to have to the opportunity to develop individuals and raise their awareness that the skill is worldwide.

Personal achievements

Parading and laying a wreath with my father in London at the Cenotaph on Remembrance Sunday 3 weeks before his passing away.

Something we didn’t know about Jonnah

I sometimes have the key to my house! I’m a director and trustee of a charity.

Group Managing Director, Karl Vella Preston Ltd.

Training Manager for Daniel Cain

How long have you been a training manager?

Since 1996. I got invited to set up the WorldSkills UK national competition at Centrex to select the national winner and train him to take part in the 34th WorldSkills Competition in St Gallen. In 1998 I again set up the WorldSkills UK final and selected the competitor for Montréal 1999. I did all the training and was UK expert in Canada. I was then Chief Expert in 2000, Seoul in 2001 and St Gallen in 2003.

I have trained both a gold and a bronze medal winner for WorldSkills.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

Meeting new people from all walks of life.

Your key thoughts about the Team

This is the best team I have been involved in. It’s all pulled together for the right reasons and everyone involved is passionate about what they are doing.

Personal achievements

I started on my own with one apprentice and turnover has gone from almost zero to £10,000,000 in 20 years.

I was awarded the IMI Motor Industry Achiever Award 2007/8 and in 2007 I became a Graduate of the City & Guilds Institute.

Something we didn’t know about Karl

I would love to own a restaurant as a hobby when I am retired.

(Karl has been receiving a lot of press coverage in Body Shop magazine.)

Lecturer, Warwickshire College

Training Manager for Dean Jones

Key responsibilities

The training of mechanics and engineers.

How long have you been a training manager?

I first started with UK Skills in 2005 helping to train a competitor for WorldSkills Shizuoka 2007. Last year I was appointed Deputy Chief Expert for the first EuroSkills Competition in Rotterdam and I am looking forward to the Calgary competition.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

The process of finding a competitor and preparing the training in the run up to the competition. To see the improvements in the selected competitor’s performance over the course of the training cycle is particularly pleasing.

Your thoughts about the Team

The development of a squad system paid off for Auto Technology as both of the selected competitors were of a very high standard this year. There are also a number of former EuroSkills competitors that came through in several trades and it should be interesting to see how they fare on the world stage.

Personal achievements

The development of an extra wide hair parting.

Something we didn’t know about Ian

When I got married the local newspaper ran the headline “miracle man weds angel” over our picture. My wife has always said that at least they got the story half right.

Curriculum Director, Peterborough Regional College

Training Manager for Dean Jones

How long have you been a training manager?

Since 2001.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

Seeing young people develop and change from selection to competition.

Being part of changing people’s lives.

Working with friends from all WorldSkills countries.

Your thoughts about the Team

For this trade, the shortlisted competitors showed a great deal of promise and were much further advanced than previous competitors at this stage. Working with another training manager has made a great difference. Extra funding this year is an exciting development that will enhance the competitor’s training.

Personal achievements

Being voted chief expert for WorldSkills Helsinki 2005, WorldSkills Shizuoka 2007 and WorldSkills Calgary 2009. I was proud to be mentioned in WorldSkills Shizuoka 2007 report as having an exemplary managed competition.

Something we didn’t know about Paul

I was a professional speedway rider from 1972-1979.

I have played the panto dame in several productions for a local drama group. In one production I sang “Islands in the stream” with my wife – only I was Dolly Parton and she was Kenny Rogers.

Self employed consultant

Training Manager for Charlotte Burford

Key responsibilities

Consultant for skills competitions, beauty therapy industry and colleges.

How long have you been a training manager?

I have been a training manager since 2005, and have helped organise the WorldSkills UK regional and national competitions since 2000.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

I enjoy working with the young people and seeing them develop their skill and confidence to become world class. Helping them to grow as people increases their employability, which in turn increases the standards of the industry.

Your thoughts about the Team

This year’s team have progressed so far in terms of skills, ability and confidence, since they competed in the national competition. They are highly motivated, with the determination and drive to do well. They are a credit to themselves and their industry.

Personal achievements

Working at Blackpool and the Fylde College, developing the beauty therapy department over the years. I trained Jenna Bailey who was the first competitor to represent the UK for beauty therapy in 1999. Jenna now works alongside me as an associate trainer.

Something we did not know about Sue

I was an extra in Coronation Street and have a penchant for anything pink.

Programme Leader / Tutor, York College

Training Manager for Sam Fairgrieve

How long have you been a training manager?

I joined the UK Team as a training manager in 2006 and supported the training of Jon Bourne who competed at WorldSkills Shizuoka 2007.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

I enjoy working with extremely skilled, motivated young people and working alongside other experts in their specific fields.

Your thoughts about the Team

Working in smaller clusters has allowed the competitors settle into their training. Even though it’s a competition, this has not affected the team spirit; in contrast it has created a good support network for them. A further benefit to this system is that introducing competitors to international standards and basic skill requirements has increased the initial quality of competitors’ work.

Personal achievements

I was awarded a City & Guilds Medallion of Excellence last year.

Something we didn’t know about Michael

I play local cricket for Woodhouse Grange and I have played four times at Lords in a National Final.

Retired Senior Lecturer

Training Manager for Luke Griffiths

How long have you been a training manager?

I have been involved in WorldSkills competitions since 1985. In 1988, I became the UK’s training manager and WorldSkills expert.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

Being able to coach a competitor to a world-class level.

Your thoughts about the Team

WorldSkills sets standards across the world, and the competitor gains a wonderful experience for life, together with top quality skills to go forward.

Personal achievements

I have trained competitors for 11 competitions, the majority of whom have exceeded the internationally recognised standard. 2 have won medals, Paul Davey, Silver, WorldSkills 2005 and Gary Tuddenham won gold at WorldSkills Shizuoka 2007.

Something we didn’t know about Peter

I was awarded the UK Skills Training Managers Award at the Association of Colleges conference in 2008.

I am the longest serving Training Manager in the Team.

I have been awarded an MBE in the 2009 Birthday Honours.

Manager & Trainer, The Learning Experience

Training Manager for Zak McLaughlan

How long have you been a training manager?

13 years: WorldSkills St Gallen 1997, Montreal 1999, Seoul 2001, St Gallen 2003, Helsinki 2005, Shizouka 2007 and now Calgary 2009.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

Working with young committed people.

Your thoughts about the Team

Squad selection has added a new dimension to the process and has generally proved to be a useful and effective process. Funding has also added value and effectiveness to the training programme both in broadening the amount and type of training we can do but also the scope of training managers’ thinking.

Personal achievements

All the competitors I have trained have been in the top 5 in the world.

Something we didn’t know about Bill

I’m a shy retiring person!

I am a modern country music fan.

Self Employed Training Consultant and Architectural Technologist

Training Manager for Cliff Williams

Key responsibilities of your role in employment

Training Manager for Carpentry - Director of SKILLBUILD NI.

How long have you been a training manager?

I’ve been a training manager for 14 years and have been involved in the design and assessment of regional, national and international competitions since 1993.

I have also been an international expert at WorldSkills competitions since 1999.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

I enjoy working with highly skilled and motivated young people to maximise their potential to become the best in the world.

Your thoughts about WorldSkills

WorldSkills has come to symbolise the pinnacle of excellence in skilled trades and technologies training.

Personal achievements

Deputy Chief Expert at WorldSkills Shizuoka 2007.

Head of School of Apprenticeship Training for 16 years.

Something we didn’t know about Pat

I play golf – high handicap so it’s strictly for fun and exercise.

I have worked with a concert promoter as a stage builder and met all the celebs from rock stars to opera singers.

Tool and Prototype Maker / Trainer, Bentley Motors Ltd

Training Manager for Christopher Coates

How long have you been a training manager?

Since September 2008. I was also a judge for CNC Turning at the national final in June 2008.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

To be able to help the competitors with their training as they strive to be the best in the world.

Your thoughts about the Team

If we carry on with the effort we have put in so far then the UK can show at WorldSkills in Calgary that we have some of the best skilled young people in the world.

Personal achievements

To be given the chance as a training manager to work with potential WorldSkills competitors.

Seeing the competitors I have been coaching become part of the initial squad for Calgary.

Learning different skills as we renovate our property.

Something we didn’t know about Andrew

My partner and I have been renovating a property and are now in the fourth year. We have been doing most of the work ourselves from producing the plans and then demolishing half of the house to putting the floors in and fitting the kitchen. We hope that we will finish this year so that we can look back and see the fruits of our labour.

Senior Lecturer, Thames Valley University

Training Manager for Alistair Birt

Key responsibilities

Programme leader for foundation degree in pastry – teaching advanced pastry.

How long have you been a training manager?

7 years: I have been involved in 3 previous WorldSkills competitions.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

The challenge at the start followed by the reward at the end of training and the effect on the competitor.

Your key thoughts about WorldSkills

WorldSkills is a great facility to meet and befriend like-minded people as well as seeing so many diverse skills techniques and trends.

Personal achievements

Master of Culinary Arts in Pastry (MCA).

BSc in International Culinary Arts.

Studying MA in Coaching & Learning Management.

Executive Head Chef, Sodexo at Eton College

Training Manager for Adam Smith

Key responsibilities

Running of all kitchen and catering requirements.

How long have you been a training manager?

I was appointed in 2008, involved in two short listing events, competing in WorldSkills UK national competitions and salons.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

Mentoring and seeing the competitor change into a focused and capable individual.

Your thoughts about WorldSkills

It’s an excellent opportunity for young chefs to compete and grow their skill base.

Personal achievements

Extensive competition winner both national and international.

Member of the Craft Guild of Chefs Culinary Academy.

Winner of Cost Sector Chef Award at 2009 Craft Guild of Chefs Awards.

Something we didn’t know about Michael

I like reading and have a very large collection of books, I also like shooting.

Education and Training Manager, Electrical Contractors’ Association

Training Manager for Richard Sagar

How long have you been a training manager?

I have been a training manager since September 2007 and was fortunate to be able to be part of the UK Team that went to WorldSkills Shizuoka 2007.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

To be able to support someone in reaching their potential is rewarding and I enjoy seeing people develop and excel. WorldSkills competitions show the best in the world and the level of competition is very high.

Your thoughts about the Team

This is the first time for a number of years the UK has been involved in the Electrical Installations skill area at WorldSkills. This means that we are effectively starting from scratch in establishing the UK’s response to this skill area so it is a major opportunity for us to demonstrate the UK’s ability to compete at international standard. International competitions are demanding and although competitors compete individually, the support that all the UK Team provides gives the opportunity for everyone to perform at their best.

Personal achievements

I have been in the electrical industry since leaving school and originally took a full craft apprenticeship and trained as an electrician. I have gained a wide experience in the industry and have recently completed an engineering degree with the Open University.

Training Manager for Melanie Adlam

How long have you been a training manager?

Only 3 months with UK Skills in an official capacity as training manager for Electronics, but unofficially I have been involved with the UK Team for WorldSkills for well over 20 years, sometimes as competition expert and trainer for the Irish team.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

Watching young people flourish and grow in confidence, helping them to achieve goals and fulfill their dreams.

Your thoughts about the Team

WorldSkills is an excellent vehicle to promote excellence in all vocational areas. It’s a pleasure to be associated with a team of professional people who are totally focused in helping young people achieve excellence in work-skills.

Personal achievements

Last year I achieved a personal goal and was awarded a Master’s degree in Education (first class). It was a very proud moment and well worth the long hours of study. No matter what age you are there is always something to achieve which gives one that special feeling.

Something we didn’t know about Ray

Travel is my passion. I have already hopped around the world on extended holidays flying and stopping off at various luxury destinations. I am a cruise addict and enjoy the luxury of the Cunard Queens. I have sailed on all 3 modern Queens and am a diamond level passenger. I have even booked a cruise for the yet to be completed Queen Elizabeth which is being launched in October 2010.

Head of Floristry, Plumpton College

Training Manager for Joe Massie

How long have you been a training manager?

Since 2005 when I was involved in the WorldSkills Competition in Helsinki - I was sent to assess the “world standard” for floristry, so I judged but didn’t have a competitor. In 2007 my competitor Natalie Stanyer came 4th, a fantastic result as floristry is a relatively new skill from the UK. Now I am looking forward to being a deputy chief expert at WorldSkills Calgary 2009.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

I love the way the competitors develop and change along the training route. Some start off shy and then gain massive confidence, others gain humility and maturity! Its great being part of this voyage of discovery.

Your thoughts about WorldSkills

WorldSkills really is “once in a lifetime“. This is what is so special for each member of the Team - there are many other competitions to enter afterwards as the competitors mature, but this experience will be the one I think they remember the most. There really is a WorldSkills family as so many friends are made through these experiences.

Personal achievements

The Graduateship with City & Guilds was a good personal achievement and the MA in Coaching for Performance Excellence which we have all just started will be invaluable both at work and for training competitors. I am a member of the recently formed UK Judges Guild.

Senior Curriculum Leader, Warwickshire College

Training Manager for Linzi Weare

How long have you been a training manager?

7 years, 3 previous WorldSkills competitions.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

The road from start to finish.

Your thoughts about the Team

Every year they seem to improve with high motivation and determination. In my trade they can call themselves a complete and world-class practitioner in all areas.

Personal achievements

Being voted in as chief expert for WorldSkills Shizuoka in 2007 and asked to take on the role again in Calgary by the international experts.

Something we didn’t know about Robert

I will expect my MBE next time!

Curriculum Area Manager, Northumberland College

Training Manager for Hugo Landau

Key responsibilities

To foster a passion for learning across the curriculum area whilst ensuring clarity and effectiveness of design, delivery and management of quality learning programmes. Also, to use competitions as a tool to engage learners and drive up skills from competence to excellence.

How long have you been a training manager?

11 years since WorldSkills Montreal 1999, becoming Chief Expert for WorldSkills Seoul 2001, St Gallen 2003, Helsinki 2005, Shizuoka 2007 and will be Expert for Calgary 2009.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

The role of training manager has broadened and heightened my knowledge of IT Technical Support and my management skills.

To be able to work with highly experienced and knowledgeable people from all over the world is unique personal development.

Your thoughts about the Team

The standards for selecting the UK Squad are being scrutinized and raised year on year. The strength of competitors is an indication of how vocational skills are changing from competence to higher and higher standards.

Personal achievements

Since becoming a training manager, I have completely changed my career and training. Although always working in ICT, the emphasis has now moved to IT Technical Support and industry based qualifications in Cisco and Microsoft. My experience gained in the management of international competition has directly led to my current role as Curriculum Area Manager.

Something we didn’t know about Jen

I love meeting people, IT, travelling and skiing, all of which I have improved and participated in through my work as a training manager.

Self employed

Training Manager for Adam Claridge

Key responsibilities

All aspects of management and production.

How long have you been a training manager?

9 months.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

Supporting the new generation of craftsmen and women.

Your thoughts about the Team

We have very promising skilled craftsmen and women. WorldSkills is a fantastic opportunity to promote young people and skills.

Personal achievements

Turning the jewellery design around and setting the trend with our launch in 2003.

Something we didn’t know about Adrian

I’m a Freeman of the City of London and also a 1st Dan ‘IAI’ (the art of sword drawing), taken in Japan.

Oxford & Cherwell Valley College

Training Manager for Trevor Woods

How long have you been a training manager?

This is my third cycle as a training manager, I have had competitors in WorldSkills Competitions in Helsinki and Shizuoka both of whom gained medallions of excellence.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

Working with young craftspeople who wish to be the best and being involved in a journey with them to help them work towards their full potential as tradespeople. Society is very quick to condemn young people but I find it inspirational to work with young competitors who are prepared to commit so much for so little direct gain. Not only do the competitor’s skills improve but they as individuals gain so much in confidence, teamwork and self-respect.

Your key thoughts about the Team

I believe the Team is in a very good position to achieve medals. A lot of time and effort has been and is being invested in each skill. The Team comprises ordinary young people who are capable of producing an extraordinary standard of work.

Personal achievements

I have been a lecturer in wood trades for over thirty years. Over that time I have seen my students compete and win in SkillBuild regional competitions, national competitions and be part of the UK squad. Also a number of past students have become colleagues of mine at college.

Landscape Manager, Horticultural Lecturer, Askham Bryan College

Training Manager for Luke Denby, William Gadd

Key responsibilities

Landscape Manager, Course Manager Intermediate Landscape Diploma, Course Manager First Diploma Horticulture, Internal Verifier, Assessor NVQ.

How long have you been a training manager?

Since 2005. I have been involved in WorldSkills UK regional and national competitions, WorldSkills Helsinki 2005 and WorldSkills Shizuoka 2007. At the EuroSkills competition in Rotterdam in 2008 I was appointed Deputy Chief Expert.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

Working with young people, raising standards, problem solving.

Organising and delivering training, working with like minded people who want to be the best they can possible be.

Teaching new skills, learning new skills.

Your thoughts about the Team

All members of the Team are enthusiastic, motivated, focused and up for the challenge, making training a real pleasure.

Personal achievements

Running and owning my own landscape business for 17 years.

Operations Manager, Area of Arts & Technology, Bridgwater College

Training Manager for Martin Eusebi

How long have you been a training manager?

I have been a training manager since December 2006. I have been involved in the WorldSkills UK competitions for the 2008 cycle and was involved in WorldSkills Shizuoka 2007.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

I enjoy most the opportunity to work with some of the most talented young engineers in the UK and to see just how far these competitors progress in such a short amount of time. This is then reflected in the incredible progress they make with their employability and life skills.

Your thoughts about the Team

The current Team are exceptional and cover a wide range of academic and employment backgrounds. They are all extremely motivated and are working superbly as a squad in pushing each other and bringing the best out of all parties involved. We are also working with some of the leading establishments in the UK, which means the competitors are receiving the very highest level of training. I believe WorldSkills has so much to offer so many people within the UK and I am very hopeful that the word starts to spread rapidly about the opportunities available to young people for once in a lifetime training and life experiences.

Personal achievements

My greatest personal achievement is directly linked to my role as training manager. I pride myself on really having made a difference to the lives of some of the young engineers I have worked with, especially the UK CAD competitor from WorldSkills Shizuoka, Michael Westlake, who is now working with a leading design and manufacturing company in the UK.

Course Team Leader at Stoke-On-Trent College

Training Manager for Mark Nevin

How long have you been a training manager?

I was appointed in June 2008. I have been involved in Squad UK training events at Acton and Stevenage. I have also been involved in training events at Brathay and regular cluster events throughout the year.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

Working with gifted and talented individuals who enjoy what they are doing and achieving.

Your thoughts about the Team

We have a fantastic team who are excellent role models for their own trades and industry, who will be the most accomplished and trained to represent the UK at WorldSkills. This is a result of support, guidance and training from the UK and WorldSkills teams.

Personal achievements

Qualifications gained in current job role.

Becoming the training manager for Painting and Decorating.

Something we didn’t know about Peter

I have a collection of every Dandy and Beano Annual since 1950.

I like to go clay pigeon shooting when I get the chance.

I holiday in Mid Wales and love going sea fishing, watching the seals and dolphins.

North Hertfordshire College, Letchworth Garden City

Training Manager for Christopher Lonsdale

How long have you been a training manager?

I have been a training manager for UK Skills since 2005 and have played an active role in 2 WorldSkills Competition events and 3 WorldSkills UK events. I have also worked closely with Summit Skills in the development and judging of the WorldSkills UK national and regional competitions.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

Developing young people to work and achieve success at an extremely high level and working with other training managers to achieve a team result that places the UK as one of the top countries in the world for vocational skills.

Your thoughts about the Team

This year significant changes have been made to the training programme and selection process that has raised the standard significantly in the squad and team selection. This will hopefully lead the Team to success at WorldSkills Calgary 2009.

The WorldSkills Competition is a once in a lifetime event for a young person and the training and time spent developing high level skills used all over the world will raise the standards of skill of the competitors and raise the quality of work completed in the workplace for an employer to a new level.

Personal achievements

Through working with UK Skills as a training manager I have had the opportunity to develop and achieved the GCGI at the last WorldSkills Competition. I am currently studying for a masters degree in coaching.

Chief Executive, Cairngorm Mountain Ltd

Training Manager for Katie Watson

Key responsibilities

To manage and develop our winter sports and visitor attraction business and to lead the Team.

How long have you been a training manager?

I competed at WorldSkills in 1991 and have been a training manager since WorldSkills Helsinki 2005.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

Seeing the competitors develop both personally and in their skill, as well as working with an international organisation.

Your key thoughts about this year’s Team

The Team we had for WorldSkills Shizuoka 2007 was fantastic, but I am sure that what is currently coming together is just as good. The process is always great fun both in the build up and at the competition.

Personal achievements

From representing the UK at WorldSkills 1991 to taking on the role as CEO at Cairngorm, I have had a great career so far. Having the opportunity to work with UK Skills has also been an experience!

Professional Lecturer, York College

Training Manager for Oliver Clack

How long have you been a training manager?

I joined in April 2004 and have been involved in all training and selection events connected with WorldSkills Competitions in Helsinki 2005 and Shizuoka 2007.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

Being with like-minded people who are passionate about sharing their skills and knowledge to raise the standards across industries and help develop the special people who want to excel in their chosen craft. I also feel valued as a member of the UK Skills Team.

Your key thoughts about the Team

This year’s Team has a quite different feel to it. We have been much more involved in event planning and have been able to develop good training strategies in the formative period that is now bearing fruit in the sense we are now seeing improved skills at a much earlier stage. WorldSkills has undergone some significant changes in a bid to improve the already high standards it is known for. As Deputy Chief Expert, I have had access to quality reporting that can only improve the competition for each of the individual skills.

Personal achievements

I was fortunate to have been invited, along with my competitor, to the Queen’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace, following his Silver medal achievement in Helsinki. I was also invited along with my wife, to St James’s Palace to receive the President’s Award from the Duke of Edinburgh.

Something we didn’t know about Kevin

I was awarded the Freedom of the City of London as a member of the Livery Company, The Worshipful Company of Masons. I also ride a very noisy and very shiny Harley Davidson motor-cycle!

Lecturer, Milton Keynes College

Training Manager for Richard Edwards

How long have you been a training manager?

I have been running the Web and Graphic Design WorldSkills UK national competitions at Milton Keynes College since 2006. I was also a judge at WorldSkills Shizuoka 2007.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

Working as a training manager allows me to be actively involved in the training of Web Design competitors to WorldSkills standards. Seeing the high standards of the WorldSkills competitors in Shizuoka in 2007 was truly amazing as was their dedication and commitment to their skill. I am pleased to have the challenge to help my competitors reach that standard so that they fulfil their dream of going to the next WorldSkills Competition and achieving a medal for the UK.

Your thoughts about the Team

It is a great honour to be part of the WorldSkills Team and to work with a team that is so supportive of not only their competitors but also of each other. The skill of Web Design is relatively new to WorldSkills and the challenge is to bring Web Design onto the world stage to show that the UK have a strong workforce of young web designers who are world class standard. The standard of our competitor’s skills is very high, they are totally committed to WorldSkills and to achieving a medal at the next WorldSkills in Calgary. They are the role models for their generation.

Personal achievements

Achieving my IT degree which took me 4 years part time. I also achieved 2 gold awards for sugarcraft.

Something we didn’t know about Jennie

I used to play bass guitar in a pop group. I have also been known as a bit of a mimic.

Self Employed Training Consultant

How long have you been a training manager?

Since October 2008.

Your thoughts on the Team

We’ve got a positive energy in the Team and I feel that we can make a mark at WorldSkills.

Personal achievements<

13 years of manufacturing experience in the Mechanical Engineering field giving me an advantage over many in the teaching profession.

10 years of teaching, assessing and programme development in the Further Education sector.

I have had 6 years lecturing in engineering in FE and 4 years for a college for the Visually Impaired and other disabilities.

Something we didn’t know about Craig

I ride a motorbike! It’s called ‘the big one’.

I am an amateur astronomer.

Owner, Cameron~Addison Design & Consultancy

How long have you been a training manager?

I was appointed in July 2007 as Training Manager and UK Dressmaking Expert for WorldSkills Shizuoka 2007. I was Chief Expert and UK Training Manager at the EuroSkills Competition 2008 in Rotterdam for the Fashion Design & Product Development Competition. The UK Fashion Team won the Gold medal. I have also been working with UK Skills on their WorldSkills UK Fashion Competition – 'Made to Measure' as technical expert.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

Working with highly motivated, extremely talented individuals is an immense privilege for me. I enjoy seeing the Team as a whole develop from the first Brathay events to the final closing ceremony at the competitions. It is a very special thing to experience.

Something we didn’t know about Victoria

My baby's first international trip will be travelling with the Team to Calgary.

Freelance Graphic Designer and Educator

How long have you been a training manager?

I became involved with UK Skills in 2004 organising the Graphic Design WorldSkills UK national competition and have continued to date. My first introduction to WorldSkills was as the Graphic Design Technology training manager/ expert in Helsinki in 2005. I continued to fulfill this role at WorldSkills Shizuoka in 2007.

Your key thoughts about WorldSkills

The WorldSkills Competition enables competitors to reach high standards, compete with the ‘best in the world’ and recognise ‘international standards’. This invaluable experience allows competitors to gain more knowledge of their skill in the preparation and training, learn more about themselves and how to cope when under pressure.

Personal achievements

The UK’s first ever graphic design technology competitor, Harry Smith, won the silver medal at WorldSkills Shizuoka 2007.

Independent IT Consultant

How long have you been a training manager?

11 years, organising and designing of all WorldSkills UK national, regional and local competitions involving IT Office Software Applications.

Your thoughts about the Team

The Team is beginning a journey that will give them the confidence and ability to follow their aspirations in their own particular skill and may change their outlook on life forever. WorldSkills provides a means of exchange and comparison of world-class competency standards. The International Competition also provides a stage where young people from many different countries can meet together and become friends.

Personal achievements

To be elected by my fellow experts from all over the world as Chief Expert in this skill for three WorldSkills competitions.

Something we didn’t know about Delia

I collect Asian scent bottles.

Exec Vice Chairman, The TDR group

How long have you been a training manager?

Since December 2006. I participated in squad & team selection, preparation & leadership for WorldSkills Shizuoka 2007. During 2008, I was appointed as the UK Skills conservatory lead for applied engineering.

Your thoughts about the Team

The WorldSkills concept clearly demonstrates that in order to compete both on an individual and an economic level, the standards to be consistently achieved are very high indeed. Every competitor at Calgary will be focused, expert at what they do, determined to win and an exemplar. To compete with the best, we must not just aspire – we must be the best. The UK Team now need to commit, persevere, challenge themselves and go the extra mile for themselves and their country.

Personal achievements

Over the past 25 years, I have experienced management success and am a chartered engineer and graduate of the City & Guilds institute.
I continue to serve on the IOD National Council at Pall Mall and at the last WorldSkills event in Shizuoka, my international colleagues elected me as deputy chief expert.

Finally at the age of 59, I have embarked (courtesy of UK Skills) on a masters degree programme at the University of Cumbria.

Something we didn’t know about Bill

I ride a Harley Davidson for pleasure.

Deputy Head of Computing and IT, Barnfield College

How long have you been a training manager?

I have only recently been appointed as a WorldSkills Training Manager. I am also a Training Manager for the UK Team at EuroSkills and a Deputy Chief Expert.

Your thoughts about the Team

We have a talented and determined team, we are all looking to achieving great things.

Personal achievements

I am proud to have been the training manager for the Office ICT Team who all achieved Medallions of Excellence at EuroSkills and contributed to Team UK coming 2nd overall.

Something we didn’t know about John

This year I was awarded the Chief Executives Award by our College Principal.

Director, Coriolis International Ltd

How long have you been a training manager?

I have trained and developed people all my career, including my time as an apprentice and throughout every business role held. I was previously involved in the national Skillfridge competition 2007 and 2008 as a judge.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a training manager?

The opportunity to keep in touch with new technology and practices, and pass the learning onto all ages that express a will to learn and develop themselves.

Personal achievements

Apart from my excellent and loving family, who of course keep me on my toes and keep me laughing at the strangest of times. I earned a Masters in Business Administration (all thanks to Susan my wife for keeping the boys out of my hair whilst I studied after work); in return I’m now paying her travel expenses around the globe. I’ve still got to build the conservatory though!

Something we didn’t know about Mark

My son’s friends think I’m a copper!

I’m told I have OCD with electrical cables!

I’m really dry witted but that goes with being a Mancunian.

Lecturer, Redcar and Cleveland College

How long have you been a training manager?

I am new this year and got involved at a training event at Redcar College.

Your thoughts about the Team

We have great team spirit from both the Training Managers and the competitors. Being involved in such a massive event showing young people in a positive light is great!

Personal achievements

Achieving my Cert Ed at 43 after 20 years out of education, and having two brilliant children!

Something we didn’t know about Peter

I am a Sunderland supporter, through thin and thinner.

Chief Welding Instructor, Doosan Babcock

Bio to follow shortly.