Rolls-Royce apprentice Jack Billingham has emerged as one of the UK’s most promising young engineers after winning gold across multiple welding disciplines at the 2025 WorldSkills UK National Finals. Jack’s victory was announced during a glittering awards ceremony at ICC Wales on 28 November, marking him out as the country’s leading young welder.

Billingham triumphed in South Wales following two days of intense, high-pressure competition that saw more than 400 finalists go head-to-head across over 40 different skill categories. From digital technologies and advanced manufacturing to creative arts, hospitality and health science, the national finals showcased world-class technical ability, creativity and professionalism — qualities increasingly sought by employers across the UK’s industrial landscape.

As part of the welding finals, held 25–28 November, the Rolls-Royce apprentice impressed judges with precision, consistency and problem-solving across multiple welding techniques, securing the top spot in a discipline fundamental to sectors such as aerospace, construction, offshore wind, engineering and defence.

Billingham’s achievement comes at a critical moment for the UK’s welding industry. With nearly half of the current workforce expected to retire by 2027, employers face an urgent need for more than 35,000 new welders. The rise of advanced manufacturing, the rapid expansion of low-carbon infrastructure and the ongoing demand for specialist fabrication skills have intensified the need for well-trained young professionals to join the sector.

This year’s competition also reflected a positive shift in industry representation, with female welders winning four of the eleven regional contests — an encouraging sign for a trade traditionally dominated by men.

Kevin Sherry, Principal Application Specialist – Metal Fabrication at Air Products and a long-standing competition judge, praised Billingham’s standout performance: “Welding is at the heart of UK industry. From offshore wind and construction to engineering, aerospace and defence, welding plays a vital role in keeping these sectors moving. This year’s finalists have once again demonstrated the extraordinary talent we have in this country.”

Ben Blackledge, Chief Executive of WorldSkills UK, highlighted the wider impact of the event: “Congratulations to all those who participated in the WorldSkills UK national competitions. They have demonstrated their skills at the highest level and these exceptional young people represent the future of our economy. They are the new generation of highflyers that will give UK employers a competitive edge. Our competitions, based on global standards, play a vital role in developing the skills that will drive investment, create jobs, and fuel economic growth.”

Air Products, which has sponsored the welding finals for more than 20 years, continues to invest in the next generation of welders through technical demonstrations, educational resources, safety training and equipment partnerships. These initiatives help ensure that competitors like Billingham have access to the practical experience and industry knowledge required to succeed.

Billingham’s gold-medal performance not only cements his place among the UK’s most talented young welding professionals but also reinforces the essential role of apprenticeships and skills competitions in shaping the future of British industry.

For more information, check out the full list of medal winners.



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