Four apprentices from South Eastern Regional College (SERC) took part in the WorldSkills UK Automation Northern Ireland Heat, held at the college. They formed two teams and were the only entrants from any college.

The competitors were all Level 2/Level 3 mechatronic engineering apprentices. James King from Donaghadee and Christy Mallon from Groomsport, both based at SERC’s Bangor Campus, formed one team. Shane Travers from Lisburn and Mark Sutherland from Newtownbreda, from the Lisburn Campus, made up the other.

Jonathan McEwan, an engineering lecturer at SERC, said the practical competition tested the teams on logic circuits, design principles, and fault-finding related to industrial automation. The pairs had to apply their problem-solving skills in what he described as a demanding but enjoyable setting.

He noted that the competition gives apprentices a chance to measure their abilities against industry standards and gain hands-on experience with advanced engineering technologies. The experience also encourages them to pursue further competitions, such as mechatronics and Industry 4.0, which could open pathways to international events.

The college teams are now waiting for the results of the Northern Ireland heat. If successful, they will advance to the WorldSkills UK National Finals in Swansea, where they will face top young engineers from across the UK.