TWO Highlanders are ready to test their skills against the world's best tradies.
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Mittagong joiner Nick Roman and Berrima bricklayer Sam Spong are heading to Sao Paulo, Brazil, to compete in the 2015 International WorldSkills Competition.
Mr Roman and Mr Spong, both 22, will depart Australia tomorrow to represent the Australian Skillaroos team at the event.
The 43rd competition will run from August 11 to 16.
The two Highlanders earned their spots after winning gold medals at last year's WorldSkills Australia National Competition.
Bowral carpenter Tom Meyers, 23, also won bronze at the 2014 event, but was too old to be eligible for next week's competition.
WorldSkills showcases the value of trade skills and raises the recognition of skilled trades worldwide.
Mr Roman said he looked forward to competing in Brazil.
"I will do my best and see how I place against the rest of the world," he said. "I am now the best in Australia so I'm very excited to compete at international level."
Mr Roman will be required to complete two joinery projects in 22 hours over four days. He will complete a window sash and two-step ladder from scratch.
Mr Roman, who works for Evalock Windows and Doors, said he had trained hard ahead of the event.
"I have been training for a while and it will be challenging," he said.
"I have been working on my technique and think that I will be up to the challenge."
Mr Roman and Mr Spong are familiar with each other, having both attended Chevalier College.
Mr Roman said it was great to be joined by Mr Spong for the trip to Brazil. "I've known Sam from school and he's a good bloke with a similar interest," he said.
Mr Spong was unavailable for an interview.
For more details about WorldSkills, visit www.worldskills.org