Martyn Bridges, Worcester Bosch’s Director of Technical Communication and Product Management, reveals how the company is tackling the skills gap present within the industry, and why this week is an important one to celebrate and recognise.
“According to research from Gas Safe Register, three quarters of the gas engineer workforce will reach retirement age by the end of the decade. In addition, with there only being 0.4% of female engineers in the gas industry, it will be important in the next few years to address how both the age and gender gap in the industry can be progressed.
“This is why National Apprenticeship Week is an important date in any industry calendar. It helps raise the awareness of apprenticeships as a viable career path for young people, and aims to show how companies can help develop a talented workforce, equipped with future-ready skills. Considering the current gap within the heating sector, National Apprenticeship Week has never been more important.
“However, responsibility also lies with manufacturers to encourage and support new installer talent. At Worcester Bosch we are looking to assist those who enter the heating and hot water industry, whether that is through our Future Talent Initiative or through sponsoring the Learner of the Year competition.
“Given the seismic change the heating industry is going through, young installers will be key. We hope that we can support those new to the industry with the tools and information needed to help them succeed and help close.”
