PHAM NEWS | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2025 32 Training& Education


High tech skills in the real world


With an ageing workforce, rapidly evolving technology and increasing regulatory demands, the need for comprehensive training has never been more pressing. Yet many struggle to access adequate professional development opportunities, creating a widening skills gap, says Sophie Weston.


T


he recent UK Trade Skills Index by Checkatrade highlighted an urgent need for 1.3 million new skilled workers and 350,000 apprentices over the next decade to meet government


targets and the ever-growing demands on the construction, home improvement and repair industries. This skills shortage comes at a time when installation complexity is increasing exponentially. Modern bathrooms have transformed into high-


tech spaces. Digital shower controls, electronic sanitaryware and smart home integration demand new competencies from installers. The days of simple pipe-fi tting are long gone. Now we’re dealing with electronics, programming and systems integration. Many installers are learning


on the job, which isn’t ideal. Environmental regulations and water effi ciency


standards add another layer of complexity. The UK’s commitment to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 means installers must understand and implement increasingly sophisticated water and energy-saving technologies. Yet formal training in these areas remains scattered and inconsistent.


Regional divides Training accessibility often varies by region. While urban areas benefi t from multiple training providers, rural installers can face long journeys or limited options. Online learning has helped bridge this gap, but hands-on experience remains crucial for many installation techniques. The traditional apprenticeship model, while


valuable, struggles to keep pace with technological change. By the time an apprentice qualifi es, some of what they’ve learned is already outdated. The sector needs a more agile approach to skills development. Leading manufacturers have stepped up


with training initiatives, but questions remain about standardisation and recognition. While manufacturer-specifi c training provides valuable product knowledge, installers need broader, transferable skills that are recognised industry-wide.


Digital evolution Virtual reality and augmented reality show promise for installation training, but high development costs limit widespread adoption. Online courses off er fl exibility but can’t fully replace hands-on experience. The skills gap aff ects more than just installers.


Property developers are often reporting project delays due to shortages of qualifi ed professionals. Homeowners face longer wait times and higher costs for installations. The ripple eff ects touch every corner of the construction and renovation sectors. Looking ahead, several key areas demand


attention: smart technology integration, water effi ciency systems, sustainable heating solutions, accessibility adaptations, and digital documentation.


Sophie Weston Head of marketing at Geberit UK


 Geberit off ers fl exible, accessible training for both urban and rural installers that addresses real market needs. Installers can access courses in supply piping systems, behind-the-wall frames, shower toilet installation and drainage systems.


Finding solutions Modern customers expect installers to be both technically profi cient and digitally savvy. From video consultations to digital quotations and project management apps, technical skills must now pair with digital literacy. Several promising initiatives are emerging, including mobile training units bringing hands-on experience to remote areas, modular certifi cation programmes allowing incremental skill development, and e-learning portals for on-the-go, any- time learning. Geberit’s approach, for example, demonstrates how


training can be tailored to address real market needs. Our programme covers essential areas including supply piping systems, behind-the-wall frames, shower toilet installation, and drainage systems – all fundamental skills for today’s plumbing professionals. Crucially, these courses take into account local market conditions and regulations, ensuring the training remains relevant to day-to-day challenges. The key is providing knowledge that’s both


comprehensive and practically relevant. By focusing on real-world applications, we’re helping plumbers, sanitary engineers, architects, and retailers address their daily challenges more eff ectively. This practical focus extends to our RIBA and CIBSE-approved CPD training sessions, which help professionals maintain their accreditations while developing new skills. The approach acknowledges that diff erent


CUT TO THE CHASE


 The sector needs 1.3million skilled workers to tackle advanced, tech-savvy jobs


 Rural installers in particular face opportunity gaps


 Apprenticeships may not keep pace with rapid change


 Online learning can’t replace hands-on experience


A coordinated investment in training is essential to bridge the skills gap


stakeholders need diff erent types of support. While plumbers might focus on installation techniques for modern systems like shower toilets, architects and designers need to understand the implications of diff erent specifi cation choices. This comprehensive approach helps bridge the communication gap between diff erent industry professionals. The alternative – a widening skills gap and declining


installation standards – serves nobody’s interests. Investment in training infrastructure, both physical and digital, must become a priority for all industry stakeholders. Only through coordinated action can the sector ensure it has the skilled workforce needed for tomorrow’s challenges. For the plumbing sector to thrive, it must address


these training challenges head-on. This means developing fl exible, accessible training solutions that work for both urban and rural installers, creating standardised certifi cation pathways that recognise both traditional and emerging skills, and fi nding ways to make professional development more fi nancially viable for independent traders. The future of the industry depends on it. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/125/23


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