CITB NI and Southern Regional College announced the SkillBuild NI 2026 regional competition. The event takes place on 19 May 2026 at Southern Regional College's Greenbank Campus in Newry.

Apprentices and trainees from construction programmes across Northern Ireland compete in 11 trade areas including brickwork and wall and floor tiling. Participants demonstrate skills and techniques under time constraints.

The Department for the Economy supports the competition alongside local suppliers and construction companies. Winners advance to represent Northern Ireland at the SkillBuild UK national finals later in 2026.

Gareth Mone, SRC Curriculum Area Manager, took part in the announcement. Alan Holubowicz, SRC Wall and Floor Tiling apprentice and 2025 SkillBuild National Finalist, attended. Rachel Dorovatas, CITB NI Director of Industry Training and Support, helped announce the event. Peter Farrelly, SRC lecturer and mentor, participated.