Posted: 24 June 2025
The University Campus Doncaster (UCDon) proudly hosted the WorldSkills UK National Qualifiers 2025 in Renewable Energy (Engineering) on Tuesday 17th and Wednesday 18th June. Held at UCDon’s cutting-edge South Yorkshire Institute of Technology (SYIoT) city centre hub, the event welcomed students and apprentices from Coleg Llandrillo, Coleg Sir Gâr and Coleg Ceredigion, Glasgow Clyde College, Macclesfield College, Middlesbrough College, Northumberland Skills and UCDon’s DN Colleges Group partner University Campus North Lincolnshire to demonstrate their technical skills in this rapidly evolving sector.
Over two engaging days, 15 participants tackled real-world engineering challenges, including system design, fault diagnosis, and advanced troubleshooting, core competencies essential to the future of sustainable energy.
Building practical skills for a greener future
As one of the most dynamic sectors within engineering, renewable energy requires a solid foundation in applied technical skills and this competition gave participants the opportunity to prove their capabilities across four specialist modules:
- Installer module: Competitors assembled and aligned a wind turbine drivetrain using the Festo LabVolt Mechanical Drives system. Tasks included shaft alignment, chain drive installation, and torque calibration.
- PV module: Participants constructed and tested a solar-to-battery storage system, focusing on correct wiring configurations and safe start-up procedures.
- Operator module (Interview): Competitors showcased their knowledge through structured interviews, covering system components, operational methods, and performance optimisation.
- Designer module: Using PVsyst software, individuals designed and simulated a grid-connected PV system, focusing on layout efficiency, shading analysis, energy yield projections, and technical reporting.
Chris Turnbull, Renewable Energy Training Manager & UK Expert for WorldSkills International and Training & Development Manager at Didactic Services commented “Both days went very well. All the competitors demonstrated impressive skill, determination, and resilience. The tasks were deliberately designed to be challenging, pushing participants to apply their knowledge across the specialist modules in a way that truly reflected real-world scenarios. It was clear to see how the competition format allowed each individual to showcase their strengths and problem-solving abilities under pressure.
A fitting venue for future-focused talent
UCDon was chosen for its exceptional engineering facilities and dedication to industry-led, skills-based education. Since its launch in 2023, the South Yorkshire Institute of Technology (SYIoT) has become a vibrant centre for students, employers, and professionals, offering a wide range of workshops and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities across sectors such as engineering, digital, manufacturing, and construction.
In March 2024, Team UK took advantage of UCDon’s cutting-edge SYIoT facilities to prepare for a global competition, refining their technical abilities using the latest industry-standard technology. More recently, in July 2024, elite renewable energy competitors Danny McBean (UK) and Takumi Gunyasu (Japan) completed an intensive four-day joint training programme at SYIoT, honing their expertise ahead of the prestigious WorldSkills Lyon 2024 event.
UCDon’s advanced facilities and strong industry connections made it a natural choice for this national event:
- Specialist renewable energy labs: Equipped with industry-standard technologies for wind, solar, and battery systems.
- Commitment to STEM excellence: As one of only 21 Institutes of Technology in England, SYIoT is a major hub for technical education and skills advancement.
- Leadership in sustainability: The campus supports renewable energy research and aligns with the UK’s net-zero ambitions, reinforcing its role in preparing the workforce of tomorrow.
- Robust employer links: IoT partners with over 5,000 businesses to ensure learners gain industry-relevant experience.
“Being involved in and witnessing the progress and growing popularity of the renewable energy competition over just a few short years has been incredibly rewarding, it reflects a real shift toward sustainable thinking in engineering education” said Hamidreza Jafarnejad, Curriculum Leader of Engineering & IoT at DN Colleges Group. “Hosting the WorldSkills UK National Qualifiers 2025 at UCDon has been a phenomenal experience and our South Yorkshire Institute of Technology facilities have provided the perfect environment for competitors to engage with real-world renewable energy challenges, showcasing the power of industry-relevant, hands-on learning.”
Looking ahead: Results and pathways
The top eight performers from this qualifier will move on to the UK national finals in November 2025, to be held in Wales. Before then, finalists will undergo advanced technical training, receive mentorship, and participate in skill refinement sessions. Those who meet benchmark scores and eligibility criteria could be shortlisted for Team UK, competing in the WorldSkills 2028 cycle.
This year’s qualifiers have highlighted not only exceptional technical performance but also the passion and drive of the next generation of renewable energy professionals. Their achievements underscore the importance of innovation, sustainability, and excellence in engineering.
Jafarnejad, concluded “It’s been inspiring to watch these talented individuals demonstrate innovation, resilience, and precision. Events like this give students and apprentices a new perspective on what they can achieve, build their confidence and open doors to exciting careers in sustainable engineering.”
Turnbull agreed, “As the Training Manager, I’m genuinely excited to see some of these hopefuls progress further in this skill – the future looks promising.”
We extend our warmest congratulations to all participants and wish them continued success in the upcoming competition, the completion of their courses and their future careers.
