In September, SETU Plumbing Apprentice Adam Harbour placed first in the Plumbing and Heating Competition at World Skills Ireland 2025.
Having completed phases of his apprenticeship at SETU’s campus in Waterford, Adam represented the University in the Plumbing and Heating category. After three days of intense competition, Adam walked away with a first-place finish, qualifying him to represent Ireland in the WorldSkills Olympics in Shanghai 2026.
Talking about the experience, Adam shared, “The competition ran from Wednesday to Friday, and it was a challenge to complete the detailed project in such little time. The other finalists were fierce competition, and I knew there would be added pressure with a crowd watching my every move.”
Continuing he said, “I felt confident though. I had practiced the various elements involved and I focused on what was in front of me.”
I knew I had done well but when they called my name, I was so relieved. All the hard work and hours practicing had paid off. To be there alongside the other finalists was an accomplishment, never mind going on to win. I was delighted.
Adam Harbour SETU Plumbing Apprentice
WorldSkills Ireland works to raise the recognition of apprenticeships and skills careers and promote excellence in the workplace, both nationally and internationally.
Deciding to compete
While studying for his apprenticeship in the University, SETU Gas Lecturer, Jim Walsh, highlighted the World Skills competition to Adam. Not one to shy away from a challenge, Adam put himself forward and after successfully passing the preliminary exams, he was set to compete in the RDS.
SETU support
Adam shared, “The lecturers at SETU were great supports throughout the experience. Jim Walsh was great. If I had any worries or questions, he was there.”
When speaking about his student’s achievement, Adam’s lecturer, Jim Walsh, said, “The Competition that Adam has won is a testament to his outstanding character and resilience, as he overcame the pressure and restraints inherent in a WorldSkills Ireland Competition.”
Adam has achieved a high level of skill and expertise in his trade, a level that few will ever attain. It is a testimony to his family, employer, and above all, himself, to have achieved the result of winning the WorldSkills Ireland Competition in Plumbing 2025.
Jim Walsh SETU Gas Lecturer
What the future holds
After leaving school at 15 to pursue his plumbing apprenticeship, Adam is set to receive his qualification soon, sharing, “This is honestly the best job in the world. I could not imagine myself with any other career and I am delighted I started as young as I did.
Continuing he said, “This is the right path for me. Each day I meet new people, overcome new challenges and I love travelling to different jobs. The next challenge will be Shanghai next year. There will be a lot of practicing ahead of that and who knows where I will be after that.”