Glasurit Partners with WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 to Shape Future Automotive Refinish Skills

The 48th WorldSkills Competition will bring together more than 1,400 top competitors from over 70 countries and regions to compete in 64 skills. Each competitor has earned their place through national and regional selection competitions and will showcase their skills on the global stage in Shanghai. In the Car Painting category, 24 countries are represented, including female painters from Canada, the Middle East, Norway, and Chinese Taipei. All competitors and WorldSkills Experts have had the opportunity to train with Glasurit experts through a series of Refinity webinars, online courses, and selected training sessions at our world-class Refinish Competence Centers.

"WorldSkills is much more than a competition. It is the world's largest event for young skilled professionals, bringing together talented competitors from many countries. In the Car Painting competition, participants demonstrate their technical skills, attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and their ability to work with the latest technologies used in our industry," says Andreas Janssen, responsible for the Glasurit expert training program.

Glasurit will be present with its own event booth, bringing together visitors, experts, and industry representatives to showcase and promote the profession of automotive refinishing, backed by more than 138 years of experience and expertise.

Throughout the competition, all Car Painting finalists are evaluated on their level of eco-efficiency in the paint application process, promoting excellence in sustainable practices. By using Glasurit 100 Line, Refinity, and paint-related materials from SATA and 3M, competitors are encouraged to use the precise amount of paint and materials required to achieve the highest-quality results, enhancing both environmental and business performance.

The Sustainable Practice Excellence Award, presented during the final day's Glasurit in-booth event together with SATA and 3M, recognizes competitors who demonstrate the most efficient use of materials and products during the competition.

Through close collaboration with leading industry partners and car manufacturers, Glasurit helps shape the future of skills and supports the development of more efficient, consistent, and future-ready repair operations worldwide. As the industry evolves through digitalization, future skills will increasingly include robotic applications. Tomorrow's professionals will combine technical expertise with digital confidence, data-driven workflows, and the ability to work alongside emerging technologies. Through Glasurit 100 Line, AraClass, and Refinity, competitors are encouraged to develop the skills and mindset needed for a future-oriented refinish industry. The award therefore recognizes more than performance. It recognizes future-ready professionals.