A group of 12 from Orange, Dubbo, Bathurst, Lithgow and Forbes competed in the Construction Steel Work and Welding competitions on Monday and Tuesday.

Students in the welding competition were judged on six different welds, while the young engineers built a replica of a road roller.

The regional winners from this week's competition will go on to compete in the WorldSkills Australia National Championships in 2020.

TAFE NSW Orange Head Teacher of Engineering Paul Honeyman said "it's the Olympics of trades".

"It's great experience for the students, a chance to showcase their skills," he said.

Mr Honeyman said expertise in steel work and welding can set the students up for high-paying careers working in specialised fields such as gas pipe lines and anything that requires intricate work.

The students in this year's competition have a tough act to follow, with TAFE NSW Orange students Jake Offner and Clinton Larkins both on their way to Russia for the international finals following their success last year.

A panel of three judges including industry representatives and TAFE teachers will decide on the regional winners this week.