Blake Cannell

Web Design

“WorldSkills has helped me on many levels! It has solidified my already strong passion for my industry, and has motivated me to never settle for second best. I have no doubt that WorldSkills is the reason I am now employed in a well-respected agency.”

Through Blake’s interest for design he got his hands on a copy of Photoshop when he was 14 years old. All things computer related quickly became a passionate hobby of his. He couldn’t put it down and wanted to know more and yearend to learn everything he could about computers. Blake progressed into Web Design around the age of 16, and after he finished his HSC he went on to complete a Certificate IV and Diploma of Web Design/Development.

Blake would highly recommend the trades of Graphic Design and Web Design/Development, “both are very tough and competitive, but extremely rewarding at the end of the day.”

Blake believes WorldSkills Australia Competitions have benefitted him both personally and professionally, “WorldSkills is an experience that you can’t find anywhere else.”

In his job Blake most enjoys the diversity. With new projects coming and going weekly, his job requires him to use a different skill set for each project. He likes that he is continually up-skilling.

In the near future, Blake hopes to continue working and growing as a designer and developer in his current job while training for the International Competition in London 2011. Blake hopes to become a Senior Web Developer in the coming years, after which he plans to travel and work in the industry internationally.

Of the International Competition Blake said “I am looking forward to the entire experience. I can’t wait for some tough competition, and of course bringing home Gold Medal!”

Favourite motto?
Aspire to inspire.

In one word describe how you feel about representing Australia in London?
Honoured!

Expert

Jarrad Langdon

Jarrad is the founder and Director of graphic and web design business, Jala Design and is also employed by TAFE NSW -Hornsby Campus in Web Design. Jarrad won a gold medal in Web Design at the 2005 WorldSkills International Competition in Helsinki and is committed to mentoring the next generation of web design competitors. Jarrad wants to help move Australia above its current 5th place ranking. Jarrad also trained Daniel Jones, bronze medallist in 2009 WorldSkills International Competition, Calgary, Canada. His advice for competitors is that they “only get one opportunity to compete at WorldSkills on an international stage, so don%27t leave anything to chance. Make sure you are prepared for any situation that may come your way whilst competing.”