More than two thousand people participated in a forklift, crane and foreign languages battle at the 23rd technical skills competition held by the Qingdao Port Group. Participants took part in 35 events.

At the competition, a crane was seen zigzagging an "M" route to hook a basket of flowers. To everyone's surprise, the basket landed softly and stably at the designated spot within its time limit.

"We improve our skills day by day. I got a cash bonus this year for my driving skills," said Wang Bangjiu, a forklift driver at the Qingdao Port.

"To improve our service quality, we encourage staff members to practice their skills every day. We also reward the outstanding. Thanks to the annual competition, initiative and creativity of the staff have been boosted enormously," said Chang Dechuan, CEO of the Qingdao Port Group.

The port used to hire 77 percent of its staff members with little educational background. But now, more than 80 percent of its technical workers have become senior technicians. Sixty-two workers have won championships in national, provincial and municipal competitions. About 1,700 staff members obtained their second skill certificates.

"The competition provides a communication platform for staff workers. We can also ensure safety and improve work efficiency and service quality," said Yu Jianjun, deputy director of the port's technical department.