SkillsUSA Sends Elite Team to WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai

On September 22-27, 2026, a select group of American skilled professionals will compete at the 48th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai, China. Organized by SkillsUSA, this international event is widely recognized as the "Olympics of skilled trades," bringing together top talent from around the world.

The United States is sending nine competitors, all of whom have been selected as SkillsUSA champions from their respective states. The team will vie for medals in seven unique skill categories, showcasing their expertise in a range of trades and professions.

James Cahill from Missouri will compete in Automobile Technology, demonstrating his mastery over complex mechanical diagnostics and vehicle systems. Tristan Coates from Florida, a business owner and former national champion, will represent the Carpentry category. Alexis Squyres from Pennsylvania, a graduate of Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, will compete in CNC Milling, focusing on precision machining.

Elizabeth Brown from Missouri, a culinary champion, will showcase world-class culinary technique, speed, and artistic precision in the Cooking category. Benjamin Strupp from Wisconsin, an exceptional diesel technician, will compete in Heavy Vehicle Technology. Evan Chow and James Sutherland from Tennessee will form a powerhouse duo in Mechatronics, representing Tennessee in the industrial automation and robotic systems engineering competition.

Charles Goede from Connecticut, a dedicated plumbing apprentice, will compete in Plumbing and Heating. Mikala Sposito from Michigan, the first female to represent the U.S. in Welding, will demonstrate exceptional precision in complex structural and metallurgical joining.

Each competitor has undergone extensive training, supported by business and industry partners. Their preparation includes virtual and in-person practices across the United States, Europe, and Asia. SkillsUSA's Executive Director, Chelle Travis, expressed confidence in the team's readiness, stating, "This extraordinary group of U.S. competitors represents the absolute pinnacle of American talent, dedication, and technical skill."

The WorldSkills Competition, held every two years, is the world's largest international gathering of skilled talent. An estimated 1,400 competitors from 73 countries and regions will participate, competing in 64 skills, including seven new emerging occupations.

SkillsUSA, the leading workforce development organization for students, has served as the official U.S. representative to WorldSkills since 1973. More than 300 Americans have competed at WorldSkills, and the organization has served over 16 million members since its founding in 1965.

To support the team's journey to Shanghai, SkillsUSA has enlisted the help of numerous business and industry partners, including 3M, American Welding Society, DENSO, DeWALT, PHCC Educational Foundation, and Tennant Company. These partners provide critical resources and expertise, ensuring that the U.S. team is well-prepared to represent the country on an international stage.

SkillsUSA's mission is to empower students to become skilled professionals, career-ready leaders, and responsible community members. The organization represents over 444,000 career and technical education students and teachers in middle schools, high schools, and college/postsecondary institutions nationwide.