Young adults in Cornwall are being urged to consider a career in the heating industry to help tackle a growing shortfall in the workforce. 

A recent government report revealed that the number of apprentices starting in 2022/23 fell by almost five per cent, with under-19s making up just over 23 per cent of the new intake.

In response, OFTEC, a registration body and leading training provider for off-grid heating technicians, is promoting the opportunities of working in the heating sector, from ‘earn while you learn’ transferrable skills, to practical hands-on experience.

David Knipe, training manager at OFTEC, said: “With new low carbon technologies on the market and the demand for reliable technicians increasing, it’s the perfect time for young people to embark on a career in the heating industry.

“With the rising cost of university tuition fees, apprenticeships are a highly credible further education option and a great route into future employment. There are numerous benefits combining theoretical and practical training, meeting new people every day and a career where your skills are always in demand.

 “To support new entrants, one year’s free OFTEC registration is available to those who have successfully completed an apprenticeship in a relevant trade and have taken the OFTEC assessments.”

For the UK’s 1.7-million oil heated households, plans have already been put forward to transition homes onto a renewable liquid fuel alternative which reduces emissions by 88 per cent and requires only a minor modification to the boiler. 

It follows a successful demonstration project in around 150 buildings using the fuel hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO). OFTEC and industry partners are working with the government to secure support for a wider rollout. 

For more information about the training OFTEC delivers, visit www.oftec.org/technicians/industry-training/training-courses-assessments