Mivan joinery apprentice Jamie Matthews has been selected by WorldSkills UK to represent the UK in Joinery at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.
Often described as the ‘Skills Olympics’, the prestigious event will take place from 22–27 September 2026.
Jamie, from Ballyclare, is a Joiner on Mivan’s Navigate Apprenticeship Programme. He is one of a 26 person team from across the UK who will compete against the world’s leading young tradespeople on the global stage.
Jamie’s journey to this point has been years in the making. While completing his apprenticeship at Mivan under the guidance of dedicated Apprentice Trainer Charlie McAuley, and gaining experience on high-end joinery projects, he progressed through WorldSkills UK regional and national competitions, alongside intensive training in the UK and internationally.
In the final months before Shanghai, Jamie will undergo further high-performance preparation to ensure he is ready to compete at the highest possible level.
This achievement reflects both Jamie’s individual commitment and the strength of apprenticeship pathways within Mivan and the wider Rathbane Group, where early careers development remains a core focus.
John Cunningham, CEO, Mivan, said: “Jamie’s selection to represent the UK at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 is an exceptional achievement and a proud moment for everyone at Mivan. His success reflects not only his own dedication and craftsmanship, but also the strength of the mentoring and support around him. Jamie’s journey is a great example of what can be achieved when talent is supported to thrive, and we look forward to seeing him take on this opportunity on the world stage.”
Jamie Matthews said: “I’m really proud to have been selected to represent the UK at the WorldSkills in Shanghai. It’s a great opportunity and something I’ve been working towards. I’ve learned a lot through my apprenticeship with Mivan, and I’m looking forward to testing myself against the best in the world.”
WorldSkills is globally recognised as the ultimate benchmark of skills excellence, where nations go head-to-head to demonstrate their ability to power future industries and economic growth.
Mivan continues to strengthen its position as one of the UK’s leading fit-out contractors and is actively recruiting a Design Manager and Design Co-ordinator to support its operations.