A young Waterford man is set to represent Ireland on the world stage at an international skills competition in China later this month.

Adam Long who is 24 years of age, has been selected as one of 16 competitors representing Team Ireland at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.

He will compete in the Digital Construction category at the event, which takes place from September 22nd to 27th.

More than 1,400 competitors from over 70 countries and regions are expected to take part across 64 different skill areas.

Adam was first introduced to WorldSkills by a lecturer at South East Technological University (SETU) and has since progressed to competing internationally as he prepares for Shanghai.

Speaking ahead of the competition, Adam said the opportunity will allow him to demonstrate his abilities in digital construction.

‘Competing at an international level will help show my dedication, skills and knowledge around digital construction and make me more known within the company,’ he said.

Before travelling to China, Adam will take part in WorldSkills Ireland at the RDS in Dublin from September 16th to 18th.

The three-day event will feature 31 national competition finals and showcase apprenticeship, further education and training opportunities.

WorldSkills Ireland Chair Ray English said skills and apprenticeships are ‘fundamental to Ireland’s future’, adding that practical and technical skills can provide a first-choice route to a successful career.