The finals of the 8th National Workers Skills Competition have commenced in Xi'an, on Sept 11, hosting 32 teams and 546 participants in a two-day showdown across six professions.

This national competition, classified as a top-tier national vocational skills event, spans traditional and advanced manufacturing industries and strategic emerging sectors. It also integrates digital applications and smart manufacturing across various industrial domains.

Contestants compete in the artificial intelligence trainers competition. [Photo/Xi'an Daily]

While retaining traditional roles like welders and CNC machine maintenance technicians, the competition has expanded on previous editions. Introducing new professions such as AI trainers, smart connected new energy vehicle mechanics, and online delivery personnel reflects an evolution towards new technologies and industries.

The event offers individual, team, and organizational awards. Winners in each profession will be promoted according to skill level regulations, and the top 3 participants meeting specific criteria will be recommended for the National May 1 Labor Medal.

Outstanding finalists will have priority access to provincial trade union-sponsored worker retreats. The competition will also recognize exceptional organizational efforts based on preliminary rounds, online training, and team performance, awarding the Best Organization and Outstanding Organization accolades.

Contestants compete in the competition for automobile maintenance workers. [Photo/Xi'an Daily]

The finals will culminate on Sept 13, determining individual, team, and organizational champions. Launched in 2003 and held triennially, this year's edition witnessed over 30,000 workers competing in provincial qualifiers and engaging in online training through the "Workers' Home" app, with participation exceeding 1.76 million.