Michael Benson

Competitor in Skill: Sheet Metal Technology
Country: New Zealand

How did you get interested in your skill?
Went to a careers expo and met the company at which I now work - they informed me of what I had to do to work there.

Where did you do your training for your skill?
Wintec, mostly at work


How did you first find out about your Member organization and its programs?
The trainer at work asked me if I was interested.


Who influenced you to pursue your skill as a career?
Scott Pritchard.

What is your experience in participating with your Member organization?
Competing in Regional, Nationals, and Oceanias.

Describe your most memorable moment so far with WorldSkills?
When I come first place at Regionals.

Describe what your experience has been since your involvement with WorldSkills.
Very surprising, a lot of work, long hours


Did participating in the skills competitions and training for WorldSkills help you progress in your skill? Please describe.
Yes, because of the training required to be able to compete to such a high level has allowed me to progress through my training much faster.

What do you currently do? Where do you work?
Stainless Design Ltd.

What are your future career aspirations?
Potential for design, managment, contracting, start up my own work shop.