TRAINING


Building capability: how skills will shape the next phase of HVAC


As the UK moves at pace towards lower- carbon buildings, the HVAC sector stands at an important point of transition. New technologies, higher performance expectations and ambitious national targets are reshaping how heating and ventilation systems are designed, installed and maintained. Yet amid this change, one factor remains constant: the success of the sector ultimately depends on the capability of its people. Chris Eaton, training manager, NIBE Energy Systems Limited, explains


T


he role of the HVAC engineer has evolved significantly in recent years. Systems are no longer isolated components but part of an integrated building approach that considers fabric efficiency,


controls, user behaviour and ongoing optimisation. This is particularly true as low-carbon technologies, such as heat pumps, become more widely adopted. Training uptake has increased, reflecting


growing interest in low-carbon heating. However, there remains a noticeable gap between qualification and long-term capability. Many individuals complete training but do not immediately transition into regular installation work, often due to a lack of confidence, support or clear progression pathways. Addressing this gap is just as important as increasing training numbers.


At NIBE, this principle underpins how we approach training. Our programmes are designed to go beyond theoretical understanding, placing strong emphasis on real- world application. Through structured, hands-on courses covering installation, commissioning and system optimisation, engineers are able to work directly with live heat pump systems in environments that closely replicate on-site conditions. This allows them to develop practical problem-solving skills and gain the confidence needed to apply learning effectively in the field.


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Equally important is accessibility. Training needs to be available in a way that works for busy professionals, whether through regional centres, flexible delivery models or partnerships with local colleges. To support this, we have invested in a dedicated training facility in Chesterfield, alongside partnerships with further education providers to help extend the reach of heat pump training across the UK. We have also introduced mobile training capability in partnership with South Lanarkshire College and Energy Skills Partnership in Scotland, to support engineers in more remote locations, ensuring that geography is not a barrier to upskilling. By offering multiple routes into training and clear progression pathways, the aim is to make skills development practical, achievable and relevant to installers at different stages of their careers. This kind of approach is essential if the industry is to attract new entrants, support existing professionals and build a workforce capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving HVAC landscape. Structured progression routes also support


Find out more at nibe.co.uk/professional


retention. When individuals can see opportunities to develop into specialist, mentoring or technical roles, HVAC becomes a more attractive long-term career. From a training perspective, this means thinking in terms of learning journeys rather than isolated courses. Manufacturers can support this by linking training with technical support, guidance and access to installation opportunities. This reinforces learning and helps engineers build confidence over time, rather than being left to navigate new technologies alone. No single organisation can address the


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HVAC skills challenge in isolation. Building capability at scale requires collaboration between manufacturers, training providers,


12 BUILDING SERVICES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER JANUARY 2026 NIBE qp BSEE Dec25.indd 1 20/11/25 10:57


accreditation bodies and government. Encouragingly, this collaboration is growing, supported by initiatives aimed at expanding net zero skills and improving access to training. Closer alignment between industry and education is particularly important. Colleges and training centres benefit from direct industry input to ensure curricula reflect on-site realities, while employers gain confidence that qualifications align with practical requirements. When training, standards and market demand are better aligned, the transition from learning to employment becomes smoother. This is why partnerships between manufacturers, training providers and further education institutions are becoming increasingly important. At NIBE, for example, we work closely with colleges to support the delivery of heat pump training that reflects real installation scenarios and current industry standards. In parallel, our partnership with specialist training provider GTEC helps create a clearer, more consistent pathway from qualification through to practical application, supporting engineers as they progress towards recognised competency and certification.


By embedding industry insight into education and creating structured routes into work, these collaborations help ensure that training leads to genuine capability, rather than qualifications in isolation.


Engineers who are well trained and supported


are also better placed to communicate with customers, explain system operation and manage expectations. This human element plays an important role in building trust and supporting wider adoption of low-carbon HVAC solutions.


As systems become more intelligent and data-driven, diagnostic and optimisation skills will become increasingly important. Training must continue to evolve to reflect this, ensuring engineers are equipped to support long-term performance, not just initial installation. The future of HVAC will be shaped by the industry’s ability to build and sustain capability within its workforce. Investing in practical, accessible and progressive training is an investment in quality, resilience and long-term success. By working collaboratively, sharing best practice and placing skills development at the centre of the conversation, the HVAC sector can strengthen its foundations and prepare for the demands ahead. With the right focus, workforce capability can become one of the industry’s greatest strengths as it enters its next phase.


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