The 2007 Skillaroos are 27 national medallists who succeeded at the 2006 WorldSkills National Competition. They represented Australia in 24 different trade and skill categories at the International Competition in Shizuoka, Japan in front of an expected 200,000 spectators and against 48 other countries.

John Rudge is one of Australia's international silver medallists for 2007 after competing in the Electrical Installations category for 4 days. John was faced with an illness during the competition where he collapsed on site; but he overame the obstacle and proved he still had the skills to swipe a medal for his country.

John is from the Macquarie region, New South Wales and is host-employed at AJS Electrical in Kelso. John trained at the Western Institute of TAFE in Dubbo with his category expert David Arnold, employed by Western Institute of TAFE.

John worked with an electrician for his year 10 work placement at secondary school. His week at work experience gave him an insight into the various skills required and the challenges and opportunities offered. He then approached various workplaces with his resume and eventually received an electrical apprenticeship through Central West Group Apprentices.

John believes that WorldSkills Australia has been an endless supporter for himself and his ambitions. He says that his skills are now up to international standards, which benefits his employer, clients and himself. John enjoys the variety in his role and the challenges and care he has to take when following strict guidelines while installing or upgrading.

John will complete a Diploma in Electrotechnology through the New South Wales Minister for Education's Scholarship, which was awarded to him for his success at the 2006 National Competition. A long term goal of John's is to travel and work with an internationally recognised company.