FANUC extends partnership with WorldSkills Europe

FANUC Europe has renewed its partnership with WorldSkills Europe, reaffirming its commitment to fostering excellence among young robot programmers and inspiring the next generation of automation professionals. The agreement was signed on 26 November 2025 at FANUC Europe’s headquarters in Contern, Luxembourg, by Marco Ghirardello, President and CEO of FANUC Europe, and Laurence Gates, CEO of WorldSkills Europe.

As a global leader in factory automation and robotics, FANUC recognises the vital role skilled professionals play in driving industrial innovation. By continuing to support WorldSkills and its renowned local, regional, and international skills competitions, FANUC aims to equip young talent with the expertise needed to thrive in an increasingly automated world.

“Automation and robotics are transforming industries worldwide – from manufacturing to food and pharmaceuticals to skilled trades and beyond,” said Marco Ghirardello. “For some years now, we are supporting the Robot Systems Integration competitions at WorldSkills events, giving young people access to the latest technological advances in automation and manufacturing.”

FANUC has been a Global Industry Partner of WorldSkills since 2018 and a Premium Sponsor of WorldSkills Europe since 2022. The renewed agreement underscores FANUC’s commitment to advancing robotics education across Europe. The most recent related skills event, the EuroSkills 2025, took place in Herning, Denmark, in September and attracted 13 teams of ambitious young robot programmers from as many European countries.

"We are delighted to extend our collaboration with FANUC, a company that exemplifies technical innovation and training excellence,” said Laurence Gates, CEO of WorldSkills Europe. “Our partnership has not only strengthened the competition at EuroSkills, but also helped raise awareness among young people of the exciting careers available in automation and manufacturing. Together, we are shaping a more skilled and confident workforce for tomorrow.”

Amid global labour shortages and rising efficiency demands, automation and robotisation have become essential for businesses across sectors. Robot System Integrators not only boost productivity but also support sustainability goals by optimising energy use and reducing waste. Training the next generation of robotics experts is therefore essential for companies in nearly every industry.