Global software and technology company Autodesk is a longstanding partner of WorldSkills and is returning this year to help bridge the gap between students, educators, and industry leaders around the world.
Dorothee Schmid is responsible for Global Education, Strategic Partnerships at Autodesk and will be at WorldSkills Conference 2024 to learn about the latest trends and global standards in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
She says, “As a global leader in the software that Designs and Makes the world around us, Autodesk is deeply committed to preparing the next generation for careers across Design and Make industries. From this cross-industry perspective, I can not wait to hear what the educators, government, and young people attending WorldSkills have to say about their needs, so that we can do more to help them succeed in the careers ahead of them. It is only when we gather and address the skills gaps together that we can build a better future – designed and made for all.”
Schmid’s words sum up one of the biggest draws for industry leaders who are interested in WorldSkills Conference 2024, taking place alongside WorldSkills Lyon 2024 from 11 to 12 September. The Conference, themed “Moving TVET to the top of the global agenda,” is a unique opportunity for businesses large and small to gain valuable insights, network with key decision-makers, and contribute to shaping the future of skills development.
For Autodesk, the Conference serves as a platform to connect across industries and showcase its own investment in TVET. Schmid explains, “We see ourselves as a connecting point between industry, education, and government. This collaboration makes WorldSkills a must-attend event for our executives as it enables them to exchange ideas with ministers, policymakers, and thought leaders and gives us an opportunity to demonstrate the work that our customers are doing on the ground across Design and Make industries.”
Autodesk’s Chief Marketing Officer, Dara Treseder, will also be at WorldSkills to meet leaders and speak at the closing panel, where she will discuss the biggest challenges and opportunities facing skilled youth.
Other WorldSkills Global Partners share this sentiment. Elfi Klumpp, who is Head of Partnership Development Global Education at Festo Didactic, says, “WorldSkills Conference 2024 is a much-needed platform for industry leaders to collaborate with educators, governments, and young people in addressing the evolving skill requirements across various sectors. We are excited to contribute to this dialogue through the participation of our executives, Andy Hurst and Oliver Niese, in sessions focusing on how TVET can lead the green transition and the impact of AI on the future of work. By sharing our expertise and learning from others, we can collectively develop innovative solutions to bridge skills gaps and empower the workforce of tomorrow.”
Industry visitors can expect to contribute to high-level discussions on topics such as “Skills initiatives for fragile economies” and “Breaking gender stereotypes”, gathering fresh ideas to take back to their organizations and teams. In addition to Autodesk, several other WorldSkills Global Partners will have speaking and panel roles during WorldSkills Conference 2024.
For example, Christopher J. Nelson, Chief Operating Officer, Executive Vice President and President, Tools & Outdoor at Stanley Black & Decker will join the opening panel. Mike Haley, Senior Vice President of Research at Autodesk will also speak at the session on “AI and the future of work.” Having voices from industry actively joining these debates will ensure any ideas or solutions that emerge will be stitched into industry’s needs.
Industry input is crucial in identifying emerging trends, technologies, and skill requirements, and WorldSkills Conference 2024 is a way for industry to contribute to this conversation. Industry visitors have the chance to shape the future of skills development and ensure that the next generation of professionals is equipped with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed.
Join the Conference as we shape the future of TVET. Find out more about registration, speakers, and the sessions.