Did anyone find it challenging to perform in the competition environment?

Hinata Kubo, Plastic Die Engineering

National Skills was my first time competing. Not only was the venue different from our regular training facility, but there was also the crowd watching from behind, people I didn’t know calling out to me, and a kind of tense atmosphere that isn’t there in practice. To make sure that these things didn’t lead to mistakes, I was completely focused on going through my usual routine, drinking water, and doing what I always do.

The two of you who took part in WorldSkills, I believe you faced difficulties that are unique to the international competition.

Takaya Koishi, Autobody Repair

In autobody repair, there was some trouble with the running of the event. The competition was originally scheduled to start at 10 a.m. on the first day, but then got pushed to 1 p.m. We had nothing to do but wait. On top of that, the tools they provided were not the sharpest. I think having to compete under such circumstances is a unique aspect of international events.

Yuto Hoshino, Car Painting

There’s also the language difference. While the national competition is just about your skill, at the international contest you also need the ability to communicate that allows you to showcase those skills. As we were working, one Expert ^* said one thing, and another told us something different. I realized that people say different things, and since it was in English, there was a hurdle to overcome before I could even show my ability.

^{*National representatives are experienced in the skills, professions, or technologies of each category and are responsible for officiating or assisting in the running of the competition.}

Speaking of tools, is it difficult when the equipment is not what you normally use?

Koishi, Autobody Repair Particularly in autobody repair, we have many different power tools and small hand tools. In the past, we were able to bring our own tools to work with, but from this year, the venue provided a uniform set. Working with unfamiliar tools really hampers your ability to show your skills.

Being well acquainted with your tools is no doubt very important. Yamasaki, do you have any equipment preferences?

Yamasaki, Mechatronics Other people carry a lot of tools for dealing with any and every occasion, but I stick to the bare essentials, using items that can fit as many pieces as possible. I’ve slimmed down to the point where I probably have the lightest setup in the country.

Yamasaki, Mechatronics I find that in the mechatronics category, there are two types of people: those who focus on speed, and those who complete the task accurately without mistakes. I’m more of the speed type, and even if I make mistakes, I mostly compensate with speed. A heavy belt slows down your movements, and I feel like in the first three months of the year I spent a lot of time worrying about what gear to have on my hip.

Karouji, Mechatronics The number of tools is probably down to about one-third.

Yamasaki, Mechatronics We used to attach a large box for holding tools, but doing away with that has made things easier, since we don't have to worry about it sticking out as we move around.

Karouji, Mechatronics I was the one who started the downsizing.

All (Laughing)

Karouji, Mechatronics I didn’t like it because the weight made my back hurt, and when I started downsizing I found that I could move faster without getting caught on objects in our small work area. Then Yamasaki followed suit.

Refining your tools is also important. How about the others?

Mizuno, Prototype Modeling My trusty companion is my Matsukaze ^* plane. I sharpen the blade myself, and it has an incredible edge.

^{*A brand of woodworking plane made by IWOOD Inc.}

Mizuno, Prototype Modeling The plane is just about the most important tool in prototype modeling. Models use what is known as a split mold, which comes apart into two halves, but wood naturally warps in response to temperature or humidity.

Controlling the amount of warping is an extremely difficult skill in crafting wooden molds. Within the scoring, the mold opening counts toward both precision and workmanship, so it has a major impact on the rankings. To eliminate these gaps, we have to account for the amount of warping while using the plane to create level surfaces.

Sugata, I’m told you are rather particular about your tools and organizing your belongings.

Shota Sugata, Car Painting

The instructors have said that I like to keep things tidy…

Hoshino, Car Painting Really? But your workspace was such a mess. (Note: Hoshino is a fellow car painter and Sugata’s senior at the Toyota Technical Skills Academy by three years.)

All (Laughing)

Sugata, Car Painting You might be surprised. In painting, the paints that we use end up on all sorts of tools, and our instructors remind us to stick to the 4S’s (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize). The painting category has various tasks, and before completing each one I take time to wipe everything down with paint thinner.

Working in the same occupation, how do you feel about that, Hoshino?

Hoshino, Car Painting I don’t see him as particularly neat.

All Harsh (laughing).

But keeping your tools clean and organized is important, right?

Hoshino, Car Painting Yes. The painting is done using a spray gun, which is a precision tool. Dried paint stops you from getting a smooth spray, which leads to points being deducted. That’s why proper care and the 4S’s are crucial in this occupation. We do that right from our training.