Everyone at Kerry Mechanical Engineering is getting behind Jack O’Keeffe as he prepares to represent Ireland at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.
Jack, from Kilmeaney, Kilmorna, will compete in the Industrial Mechanics category at the international competition in Shanghai, which takes place from 22 to 27 September and will bring together more than 1,400 competitors from over 70 countries and regions across 64 different skill areas.
His place on Team Ireland follows his success at WorldSkills Ireland, where he was named Industrial Mechanics National Skills Champion for 2025 after winning the national competition at the RDS in Dublin.
It is an impressive achievement, but Jack’s journey in engineering started much closer to home.
While still at school, Jack gained hands-on experience working on mechanical projects, developing the practical skills that would eventually lead him towards a career as a Mechanical Automation and Maintenance Fitter (MAMF).
Since winning the national title, his preparation for Shanghai has included international competition and training in Sweden as he gets ready to test his skills against some of the best young industrial mechanics in the world.
WorldSkills is often described as the “Skills Olympics”, bringing together talented young people from around the world to demonstrate the standards of skill, precision and technical knowledge required in modern trades and industry.
For KME, Jack’s achievement also demonstrates the opportunities that can come from developing practical engineering skills and pursuing an apprenticeship and career in the sector.
From gaining his first hands-on experience locally to becoming a national champion and now representing Ireland on the world stage, Jack has already achieved a huge amount.
Everyone at KME wishes Jack and the entire Team Ireland delegation the very best of luck in Shanghai.
Beir bua, Jack! 🇮🇪
