When Stuart first stepped into Mr Ng’s Graphic Communications class at Carluke High School, he had no idea that a spark lit that day would launch him into a career that would see him represent Scotland and the UK in engineering.
“I owe a huge amount to Mr Ng. His teaching ignited my passion for computer aided design. When I was selected by WorldSkills UK to join the Squad to train for WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, he was one of the first people I messaged. I wasn’t sure he would remember me, but he did, and he couldn’t have been prouder”, explains Stuart.
Stuart who studied for a Higher National Diploma in Computer Aided Design and Draughting at New College Lanarkshire now works as a Computer Aided Design Technician at Glacier Energy. Stuart explains his involvement in WorldSkills UK Competitions, while at college, not only helped him develop his technical abilities, but also strengthened the work readiness skills employers are looking for in young people.
“My competition experience gave me greater confidence in my own abilities and helped me understand the standards expected in the workplace and that really stood out for Glacier Energy in my interview”, explains Stuart.
Stuart’s employer knows firsthand the benefits of WorldSkills UK Competitions. Martin Eusebi, Operations Manager at Glacier Energy, won a Medal of Excellence at WorldSkills Calgary 2009 in Mechanical Engineering CAD, the same competition that Stuart will take part in. His employers have been hugely supportive of his training with WorldSkills UK, which has seen him take part in international training events including EuroSkills Herning 2025.
During the summer, Stuart will balance his role at Glacier Energy with intensive preparation for the WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 competition, dedicating his weekends to training.
“I’m completely focused on the challenge ahead. It won’t be easy balancing work and training, but opportunities like this come around only once. Representing my country at WorldSkills is a huge honour, and I’m determined to give it everything I’ve got and make everyone who has supported me proud.”
