BRIDGING THE GAP Bridging the HVAC Skills Gap
The HVAC sector, like many others, faces one of its most pressing challenges: a widening skills gap. With the growing demand for energy- efficient solutions, the need for highly trained technicians has never been greater. Yet despite thousands of people receiving HVAC training each year, the industry still needs more. This disconnect raises difficult questions: are outdated perceptions of HVAC careers still blocking progress? And if the sector fails to attract, retain and develop the right people, could the UK’s Net Zero targets slip out of reach?
Building the workforce of tomorrow
Carrier has made tackling the skills gap a priority. The company currently employs 60 apprentices across the UK, with three recently graduating into full-time roles and a further 17 to be recruited during the remainder of 2025. This year, Carrier hosted apprentice assessment days for the first time across three regions: Stockport, Telford and Bracknell. Led by Carrier’s dedicated apprenticeship team, the sessions gave candidates extended time with assessors, helping create stronger and more confident selections. The high turnout and ability to identify successful candidates on the day marked an important step forward in building a pipeline of talent.
A strong start for apprentices
Inductions for the new apprentice cohort took place in September 2025. Carrier enhanced the experience by incorporating Academy-based training alongside the existing EHS workshop and programme overview. This structured introduction gave apprentices the best possible start, embedding confidence early and preparing them for the practical learning ahead. Carrier’s Academy, which opened last year,
provides hands-on access to commercial heat pumps, chillers and air handling units, where apprentices train in:
• Commissioning and servicing new installations
• Safe handling of low-carbon refrigerants, such as R-290
• Preventative maintenance, VFDs and compressor overhauls
• Diagnosing faults and troubleshooting real-world scenarios
This approach reflects a wider need that bridging the skills gap is not just about classroom learning, it needs to equip people to solve real problems for customers.
Beyond technical skills
Carrier’s programme goes further than technical training. Apprentices are supported in developing leadership, digital literacy and workplace resilience. These skills can sometimes be overlooked but Carrier understands how vital they are for long-term success. Each apprentice works with experienced mentors who provide guidance and help chart a clear career path. One apprentice benefiting from this approach is Keira Davies, a third-year apprentice in Electrical Installation and Maintenance. Keira
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initially felt out of place in a male-dominated industry, but with support from her team, she has grown in confidence and now maintains Carrier’s fleet of hot water and steam boilers to the highest safety standards. Meanwhile, Archie Hanlon, recent Refrigeration and Air Conditioning graduate, looks back on the variety of site visits and chances to troubleshoot complex systems as a very valuable part of his training. “I really enjoy the hands-on learning opportunities I get during site visits,” says Archie. “They give me a better understanding of the challenges technicians face and help me provide technical support with a practical perspective.” These stories remind us that the skills gap is about people, not just numbers. If more young people saw the impact apprentices like Keira
and Archie are having, would we still face such a shortfall?
Showcasing opportunities
To support outreach, Carrier has launched a new apprenticeship brochure, a tool to use both online and at events. By showcasing career pathways and success stories, it helps challenge outdated perceptions of HVAC work as “low-tech” or “old-fashioned.” In reality, HVAC is central to the UK’s low-carbon transition, offering varied, meaningful and future-proof careers.
A blueprint for success
As it stands, the numbers don’t quite add up. Demand for low-carbon systems is rising fast but there aren’t enough people to install them. If the industry can’t close that gap, the UK’s net- zero ambitions could slip further out of reach. Carrier’s recruitment strategy, structured
programmes, hands-on Academy training and personal development can be used as a blueprint to make a difference. With a growing and thriving apprenticeship programme and a proven track record of progression into full-time roles, Carrier is showing that the skills gap can be bridged – it just needs a collective effort from manufacturers, installers, consultants and training providers to make a real difference. To find out more about apprenticeship and training opportunities at Carrier, visit
www.carrier. com/commercial/en/uk/
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