Two rising baking apprentices have been named as part of the national training squad ahead of the 2026 WorldSkills Competition.

Connor Beisler and William Nickl both took home gold medals in the WorldSKills Australia finals, held in Brisbane in June. This week, the duo took the first step towards selection for Team Australia, and will now undertake an extensive training program in the coming months.

If successful, Connor and William could be named as part of Team Australia, which will compete at the 48th WorldSkills Competition that will be held in Shanghai, China, in September 2026.

Connor said he had found the entire WorldSkills experience so far to be highly rewarding.

“It has been a wonderful experience for anyone involved, not just the medalists,” he said.

“I faced many challenges along the way. It’s not an easy journey, but it’s definitely rewarding.

“The long days of training and personal sacrifices are worth the skills and knowledge you will gain along the way. The amount of networking I did along the way will definitely help me within my future in the industry.”

Connor said the next year wouldn’t be easy as preparations began to ramp up, and would involve long work days followed by training sessions with his mentors.

“The closer the competition gets, the more training will be required each week,” he said.

“For any apprentices contemplating participating in WorldSkills I would highly recommend it. Just participating will change your life for the better – the skills you will learn, the people you will meet and the experience you will gain along the way will be invaluable to you moving forward in your chosen skill.”

WorldSkills Australia chief executive officer Trevor Schwenke said the talent on display at the National Championships was nothing short of extraordinary.

“… a true reflection of the world-class skills that exist right here in Australia. These young people have proven themselves among the best in the country and now have the opportunity to show the world just how strong and competitive Australian skills excellence is. reflection of the world-class skills that exist right here in Australia. These young people have proven themselves among the best in the country and now have the opportunity to show the world just how strong and competitive Australian skills excellence is,” he said.

“Behind every squad member is a dedicated trainer, mentor, and a VET system that equips young people with real-world skills and career pathways. WorldSkills is more than a competition – it’s a platform to showcase potential, elevate ambition, and celebrate the skilled professionals shaping Australia’s future. We’re incredibly proud to support this next generation as they take their first step toward the world stage.”

Federal Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles said he congratulated every member of the national training squad, who have already proven their success.

“These rising stars represent just a snapshot of the incredible skill and dedication that is shown by apprentices, trainees and students right across Australia – and showcasing to other Australians the endless possibilities that come from pursuing vocational education and training,” he said.

This is the second time Connor and William have taken to the national stage together, after they both won the 2024 Excellence in Baking national titles.