South West College (SWC) apprentices and trainees recently put their skills to the test in the Construction Industry Training Board NI (CITB NI) annual SkillBuild NI Intercampus Competition 2025. Hosted at SWC’s Omagh Campus, the competition brought together construction students from Omagh, Dungannon, and Enniskillen to compete across multiple construction-related disciplines.

Supported by the Department for the Economy and run by CITB NI, SkillBuild NI is the UK’s largest multi-trade competition, providing a platform to showcase the region’s top construction talent.

SWC students competed in various categories, including Brickwork, Carpentry, Joinery, Plumbing, Electrical, Plastering and Drywall Systems.

On the day, all participants undertook a timed skills test and were awarded a certificate, with category winners announced across each trade area. These winners now have the opportunity to progress to the next stage of the competition. Success at this level marks the first step towards the prestigious WorldSkills stage, where top-performing students are benchmarked against competitors from other Further Education Colleges across Northern Ireland. Those who excel may even go on to represent the region at national and international levels.

Christopher Robinson, Head of Work-Based Learning at SWC, praised the students for their commitment and achievements:

"The SkillBuild NI competition is an incredible opportunity for our students to demonstrate their technical abilities and gain recognition for their craftsmanship. The standard of work produced reflects the exceptional training provided at South West College and the dedication of both students and staff. A huge thank you to the lecturers, technicians, managers, support staff, and employers who have helped prepare our apprentices and trainees for this event."

John Moss Head of Department Sustainability Construction and Transport said:

"We are delighted to see so many of our students participating and competing at this level. Their exceptional performance is a testament to their hard work and dedication, as well as the invaluable training and support provided by both the College and their employers.

"At South West College, we recognise that these competitions do more than showcase talent, they cultivate key skills such as resilience, self-confidence, and effective communication, all of which are essential for academic success and future careers.

"Congratulations to all participants, and best wishes to those advancing to the next stage!"

For more information on SkillBuild NI and CITB NI’s support for apprenticeships and employers, visit www.citbni.org.uk.

Construction and Trade Apprenticeships at SWC