BRIDGING THE GAP The apprenticeship opportunity P
The UK’s low carbon economy is set to soar, but progress depends on training a new generation of plumbing and heating engineers who will form the foundation of the low carbon workforce. Megan Killen, head of apprenticeships at Logic4training, explains how apprenticeships benefit business and why they are a strategic solution for driving growth and bridging the skills gap
lumbing and heating is the backbone of the UK’s built environment, yet the sector is at a critical juncture. With experienced professionals retiring and fewer young people entering the industry, a widening skills gap is threatening the sector’s ability to meet increasing demand for low carbon heating. Apprenticeships present a solution, offering mutual benefits for both trainee and employer.
The skills shortage challenge
The UK Trade Skills Index 2023 reports that over 70,000 new plumbers are required by 2032, highlighting the urgent need for accessible and flexible apprenticeship training models. Future installers must be trained in both low-carbon renewables and traditional gas heating, as gas remains a necessary energy source for many homes. New entrants to the sector are in decline and
a broadened recruitment strategy is needed to increase interest in careers in plumbing and heating. The current shortfall, partly due to an aging workforce nearing retirement but also outdated stereotypes, reinforcing negative misconceptions about academic ability, deters young people from pursuing a career in building services engineering. University pathways are often perceived as the superior career choice and with university level STEM programmes on offer, attracting young people to a career in the trades is more competitive than ever.
Apprenticeships: a strategic solution
Apprenticeships provide significant benefits for both employers and apprentices. Businesses gain cost-effective, skilled workers while giving trainees hands-on experience, qualifications and a direct career path - without university debt. Ex-industry professionals are frontline for delivering training, ensuring apprentices gain core skills from experienced experts to drive the industry forward and meet the energy sector challenges of the future. Government data shows 86% of employers
credit apprenticeships with business growth. By investing in the development of the workforce, businesses can increase employee motivation, improve staff retention and ensure valuable expertise remains within the company. Best results will come from recognising people’s potential and nurturing their talent. Attracting a diverse apprentice pool Although often associated with school leavers,
apprenticeships offer a valuable opportunity for people of all ages, including career changers. Employers can also use apprenticeships to upskill existing staff, enabling businesses to expand into new markets or build a more resilient workforce. Expanding the apprenticeship demographic beyond young entrants is critical for addressing the skills shortage. Older individuals, including those seeking career changes or re-entering the workforce, represent a valuable and often untapped resource. These candidates bring a wealth of life experience, transferable skills and a strong work ethic.
From hospitality to heating - Julieta’s apprenticeship journey
Julieta, a former hospitality worker and single mother, sought a more stable and worthwhile career. An apprenticeship with CSD Gas, facilitated by Logic4training, enabled her transition into gas engineering, equipping her with essential skills and work stability. Through her apprenticeship, Julieta has gained both practical experience and theoretical knowledge, setting a strong foundation for her future in the industry. A supportive training environment such as this, leads to desirable results for both trainee and employer. Julieta reflects, “Long term, I’m interested in developing my skills. This is a great sector to be working in and there’s plenty of opportunity to take on engineering in lots of different directions. In the very long term, maybe it would be nice to have my own business, perhaps a company of all-female engineers. Who knows!”
Her story highlights how apprenticeships can offer fulfilling career changes for individuals looking to enhance their skill set and secure their futures - at any age. For those with prior experience, apprenticeships can often be completed more quickly or undertaken at a higher level, with the support of a training provider to align with business needs.
Flexible training delivery
Traditionally, apprenticeships operate with a day-release model for training, splitting time between work and training weekly, typically during academic term times. However, this is not the only option. Year-round training and block- release formats provide greater flexibility and accessibility:
• Focused learning - Apprentices can apply themselves fully in their studies without the distraction of daily work responsibilities.
• Operational efficiency - Employers can plan workloads more effectively, knowing when apprentices will be absent for training.
• Cohort cohesion - Apprentices train alongside peers, fostering a supportive learning environment and facilitating knowledge sharing.
Working with Julieta’s employer, Tony Day, co- owner of CSD Gas, we were able to develop a block release training model where apprentices alternate between three weeks on-site and one week of focussed training. This approach ensures apprentices gain comprehensive, hands-on experience while integrating seamlessly into the company’s workflow. Tony notes, “The support Logic4training has given us in moving our business forward has been excellent,” and says he has observed significant growth in the apprentices’ confidence and skills, positively impacting both team dynamics and customer satisfaction. Tony’s story highlights how investing in apprenticeships can cultivate a skilled workforce, tailored to a company’s specific needs while fostering sustainable business development.
Future proof skills
As the UK decarbonises, future engineers will undoubtedly need expertise in renewables like heat pumps - and the option to upskill into green technologies will continue. However, gas qualifications remain essential, providing the baseline of knowledge and skills for years to come, as gas boilers continue to be installed, serviced and maintained. By investing in apprenticeships and supporting diverse pathways into the profession, businesses can not only alleviate the current skills shortage but also build a resilient and dynamic workforce ready to meet the challenges of the future.
24 BUILDING SERVICES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER APRIL 2025 Read the latest at:
www.bsee.co.uk
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