Tracy appointed Chief Judge for WorldSkills 2025

Taken by surprise by the invitation, Tracy said she was blown away but absolutely thrilled.

“To have such an important role at a prestigious event like WorldSkills is beyond words,” she said.

In this international competition, trainees, apprentices, and students showcase their knowledge and skills, aiming for Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals and the opportunity to represent their country as part of the Skillaroos – the WorldSkills Australia International Team.

Meanwhile, judges like Tracy have the difficult task of adjudicating the competitors.

With over 30 years in the beauty industry and a substantial tenure in teaching, Tracy brings significant experience from previous WorldSkills regional and national roles, but this is a first as the lead for the beauty category.

In 2007 she mentored a student who won Gold at nationals and went on to compete at the international level.

“To become a chief judge, not only do you need to apply and sell your skills and professionalism, you must dedicate a lot of volunteering time for meetings, training, events and mentoring,” said Tracy.

"Judges for WorldSkills undergo rigorous training to ensure they understand the competition rules, criteria, and scoring procedures. They must possess expert-level knowledge in their respective skill areas and demonstrate impartiality and fairness in evaluating competitors' performances,” she said.

Later this year Tracy will lead a regional competition at TAFE Queensland’s Robina campus on the Gold Coast, with her beauty team, followed by the national event in June 2025.

For Tracy, being a WorldSkills judge holds immense significance.

"It offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of up and coming professionals on a global scale and promote excellence in vocational education and training," she said.

As a TAFE Queensland beauty teacher on the Gold Coast, Tracy finds immense fulfillment in witnessing her students' growth.

"Seeing students grow and succeed, knowing that your guidance and expertise have played a role in their development and future career prospects, is incredibly fulfilling," she said.

“Memorable teaching moments often involve witnessing a student's breakthrough, whether it's mastering a difficult concept, achieving a personal goal, or landing a dream job. These moments reaffirm the impact of education and the value of dedicated teaching.”

Tracy currently teaches the Certificate III in Beauty Services right through to the Diploma of Beauty Therapy at TAFE Queensland’s Robina campus where she continues to share her wealth of knowledge with the latest generation of therapists.