Check presentation for WorldSkills 2026

Niko Schleicher, a tile setter from Illingen, represents his trade in Shanghai. The Saarland Crafts Foundation supports him financially.

Niko Schleicher from Illingen will represent the German tiling trade at the WorldSkills in Shanghai from September 22nd to 27th, 2026! The 22-year-old is part of the German national construction team and will compete against the international elite of his trade.

He can currently only contribute a little to his father's family business in preparation – this year he will be away for almost 20 weeks for competitions and training with the national team. To ensure his trip to Shanghai is a success, the Saarland Crafts Foundation – Winfried E. Frank Foundation – is supporting him with €1.500. Helmut Zimmer, President of the Chamber of Skilled Crafts (HWK), and Hans-Ulrich Thalhofer, Managing Director of the HWK, presented the check. Also present were master tile layer Thomas Müller, head of the state trade group for tile layers (AGB Bau Saar) and deputy state guild master of the Saarland Construction Trades Guild. The state trade group is also supporting Niko with €3.000.

We wish Niko the best of luck for a successful participation in the WorldSkills 2026!

Background: Report on Niko Schleicher Background In the July/August issue of the DHB magazine, there is an article about Niko starting on page 48.

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Further news from the district of the Saarland Chamber of Crafts