www.heatingandventilating.net
Drivers and barriers to training The main drivers for upskilling include rising customer demand, competitive advantage and personal interest in sustainable technologies. However, barriers remain, particularly for smaller firms. Training costs, lack of local provision and the need to take time away from work deter uptake. There are also generational differences in uptake. Those aged 25-34 are most likely to have trained in renewables and almost a third of 18-24 year olds plan to train in heat pumps specifically in the next 12 months. These findings signal the importance of supporting and encouraging newer entrants to the sector to train in these areas to create a confident and skilled workforce for the future.
The appeal of apprenticeships
Attracting and retaining the next generation of workers, however, remains a long-standing challenge. Apprenticeships are widely recognised as essential to the future of the sector, yet uptake varies depending on business size, with larger employers far more likely to hire apprentices than sole traders, according to the Taking the Temperature report.
Digital tools enhancing productivity
Digital adoption is emerging as a way to improve productivity in an industry under time pressure. Installers report losing significant hours each week to non-billable tasks, including sourcing parts and
preparing estimates. Many are using digital tools to reduce these tasks, particularly when identifying and sourcing boiler spares or diagnosing system problems. Fast access to spares has become increasingly important, driven by customer expectations, tighter turnaround times and the need to minimise downtime.
“ Apprenticeships are widely recognised as essential to the future of the sector, yet uptake varies depending on business size, with larger employers far more likely to hire apprentices
than sole traders.” Taking the Temperature report
Building a resilient sector The sector is navigating rapid change. Training in renewables, adoption of digital tools and investment in new talent will help businesses succeed in a more complex operating environment. City Plumbing is committed to supporting
installers and businesses to overcome barriers to growth. Investment in renewables training, delivered through partnerships, centres of excellence, mobile training rigs and umbrella schemes in lieu of MCS accreditation, is increasing access to accredited courses without the burden of high costs or long travel. Digital tools such as Spares Finder, Fault Finder and the Air Source Heat Pump Kit Builder help engineers diagnose issues, choose products and reduce time spent on non- billable tasks. Fast access to stock, including 20,000 boiler spares, all with same day branch collection and next day delivery, helps keep jobs moving and reduces downtime.
With customer demand high and expectations
rising, there is a clear opportunity for the industry to modernise. Working together and focusing on training, technology and reliable supply will help businesses and installers adapt and build a more sustainable sector for the future.
DOWNLOAD THE HVR APP NOW January 2026 27
INDUSTRY INSIGHT
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32
