WorldSkills and FANUC champion the next generation of robotics talent

From 22 to 27 September 2026, more than 1,400 young professionals from over 70 countries and regions will come together in Shanghai, China, for the 48th WorldSkills Competition. Across 64 skill competitions, they will demonstrate the technical expertise, precision and creativity needed in today’s skilled professions.

For the manufacturing and engineering community, one of the key competitions will be Robot Systems Integration. Taking place from 23 to 26 September at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai, the competition will challenge 20 international teams to complete an industry-oriented robot integration task developed by FANUC, Gold Industry Partner of WorldSkills International and Gold Partner of WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.

More than half of the participating teams will travel from Europe, with young professionals from Austria, Belgium, France, Hungary, Italy, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain and the UK competing for the gold medal in one of the most future-focused disciplines in industrial automation.

As automation continues to transform industries ranging from manufacturing and food production to pharmaceuticals and skilled trades, the role of robot systems integrators is becoming increasingly important. These specialists design, programme and commission robotic solutions that help companies improve productivity, use resources more efficiently and maintain competitive production environments.

FANUC supports the Robot Systems Integration competition by providing technology, expertise and training for participants at local, national and international levels. Through this commitment, the company aims to give young people practical experience with advanced automation technologies and help prepare them for careers in a rapidly evolving industrial landscape.

Robot Systems Integration is a unique skill that brings together engineering, technology and creativity. Competitors are challenged not only to programme and integrate robotic systems, but also to analyse complex requirements, develop innovative concepts and solve automation problems under demanding conditions.

Success requires a combination of technical excellence, critical thinking, teamwork, communication and adaptability. Through its long-standing partnership with WorldSkills, FANUC is proud to help develop these capabilities and inspire young professionals to pursue careers at the forefront of advanced manufacturing and industrial innovation.

From vocational education to professional training, FANUC supports skills development at every stage of the manufacturing career path. Through its established FANUC Academies, the company provides training for robot and machine operators, programmers and automation specialists, helping manufacturers strengthen in-house expertise and improve production efficiency.