Meet Alexis

WorldSkills is an international competition for skilled trades and technical professions aimed at young people under the age of 23, whether they are professionals or still in training. 

The 48th edition of the National Skills Competition, organised by WorldSkills France, will bring together 800 regional champions for three days of tests and challenges in nearly 70 trades. Among these competitors will be Alexis:

To start, tell us a little about yourself. 

I am 20 years old, and I am currently doing a work-study programme in the Tooling Design Office in the UFT 3D Printing division at Airbus Helicopters in Marignane. I developed a passion for 3D printing and additive manufacturing in general during my studies in Industrial Product Design. On a more personal level, I am curious, persistent, and I like to take on challenges. 

How did you hear about WorldSkills and what motivated you to participate?

I first heard about WorldSkills from my former prototyping teacher. At the time, he was coaching a candidate for the national competition. That candidate went on to become French champion and world runner-up in additive manufacturing, and now works in the same team as me at Airbus Helicopters. His journey really inspired me and made me want to try it myself. As regional champion, I will have the opportunity to represent the South region in the national competition - a unique opportunity to push my limits, constantly raise my level of additive manufacturing skills, and progress in a field that I am passionate about. It is also a chance to make my family, teachers, and colleagues proud by showing them the fruits of all my hard work.

Can you describe your training routine? How does it differ from a normal working day?

My training day is very different from a normal working day. We had two full weekends of physical and mental preparation sessions with the Southern Region team. One of them took place at the Centre for Sports Resources, Expertise and Performance (CREPS) in Boulouris, an iconic venue for high-level sport. These sessions focused on team building, pushing ourselves beyond our limits, and mental preparation, so that we could approach the competition in the best possible condition.

In addition to this, there was technical preparation, supervised by my coach and former teacher. Every week, we review my progress together: he gives me work to do, then we analyse my progress and areas for improvement. I also sometimes go back to high school to train directly with him, so I can benefit from his expert insight and immediate feedback. 

How did Airbus Helicopters help you prepare for this competition?

Airbus Helicopters helps me prepare every step of the way, because within the 3D Printing Tools division, the teams and management are constantly challenged by industrial challenges. In addition, the machine park consists of high-performance printers that enable us to achieve the level of excellence we strive for. Finally, it is a stimulating environment where innovation is constant. 

How did your family and colleagues react to your participation? 

At first, my family and friends didn't know anything about the WorldSkills competition. So I took the time to explain the importance of this event to them, and once they understood what it was all about, they immediately supported me. They will also be in Marseille to cheer me on during the competition.

What is your main goal for the competition? What would success mean to you, whether you win or not?

I want to come out of this competition with no regrets, with the satisfaction of having worked hard and strived for excellence at every stage. For me, success is not just about winning a medal: it's about pushing myself beyond my limits, the skills I've acquired, and the confidence I've gained.

How are you feeling on the eve of the final?

I feel ready and fully focused. Of course, there's a little stress, but to be honest, my main goal is to give it my all. 

Honestly, I would say to young people who want to participate in WorldSkills: go for it! It's an exceptional human experience. The competition allows us to meet passionate people from all trades, discover excellence in each discipline, and improve our own skills. Yes, it's truly an unforgettable experience!