In the midst of what many experts are calling the most significant industrial revolution since the days of spinning jennies and steam engines, the call for skilled engineers has never been louder. As we move towards a net-zero future, the demand for trained professionals in renewable technologies is skyrocketing. Now, more than ever, apprenticeships represent a pivotal gateway into these burgeoning sectors, offering a blend of hands-on experience and industry-specific qualifications that are invaluable in today’s evolving landscape.
According to estimates by the Heat Pump Association (HPA), meeting the government’s ambitious net-zero targets by 2025 will require the equivalent of 33,700 full-time employed heat pump installers. This staggering figure underscores the urgent need for a skilled workforce capable of driving forward the transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions. As well as apprenticeships presenting a vital opportunity for businesses to cultivate the next generation of talent and meet the demands of this rapidly expanding market, employers can also learn from the apprentice these new skills and technologies, fostering a dynamic exchange of knowledge and innovation within the workplace.
At Steve Willis Training Centres, we understand the critical role that apprenticeships play in shaping the future of our industry. That’s why we’re proud to offer an innovative gas apprenticeship programme that includes a complimentary qualification in Heat Pump Green Technologies design, installation, and service on the completion of their Level 3 Gas Engineering Operative apprenticeship. This additional certification arms apprentices with the specialised skills needed to thrive in the realm of renewable energy, ensuring that they are well-equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow head-on.
The benefits of apprenticeships extend far beyond the acquisition of technical skills. Apprentices also enjoy the opportunity to earn while they learn, avoiding the burden of student debt that often accompanies traditional university education. Moreover, apprenticeships provide a direct pathway to employment, with many apprentices securing permanent positions upon completion of their training. With the demand for skilled professionals in the gas and electrical sectors showing no signs of slowing down, now is the perfect time to embark on a career in these dynamic fields.
At Steve Willis Training, we are committed to providing apprentices with the highest quality education and support possible. Our programmes are designed to not only meet the needs of today’s industry but also to prepare apprentices for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The national average for Gas apprentices receiving a distinction in their End Point Assessment (EPA) is 17% (2023 Ofqual), yet our gas training team takes pride in achieving, a remarkable a 51% distinction rate, so far from January through to March 2024, a testament to our trainers’ dedication to passing on expert industry knowledge. This is coupled with a100% pass rate for those attempting the EPA. For 2024 we have had forty-five gas apprentices take their EPA and passed, with a further twenty-three gas apprentices still to take their EPA (as at the 02.04.2024).
In an era defined by innovation and transformation, apprenticeships represent a powerful investment in the future of our industry. By equipping the next generation of engineers and electricians with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed, we can ensure that our nation remains at the forefront of technological advancement for generations to come. Together, let’s seize the opportunity to shape a world where clean energy and sustainable practices are not just aspirations, but realities.
