Building on the successful launch of its new Academy in Bracknell and the appointment of a dedicated apprenticeship programme lead in 2024, Carrier aims to recruit at least 17 apprentices this year. With a 30 per cent increase in its technical apprentice intake for 2024, Carrier now employs over 50 apprentices across its UK business. Carrier says that once trainees have successfully completed their apprenticeship, ‘they have a clear pathway to full-time employment’.
“The skills gap in the HVAC sector remains a persistent challenge,” said Adele Watson, Apprenticeship Programme lead, Carrier Commercial UK and Ireland (pictured). “Along with the challenge of attracting new talent, we also need to retain the skilled technicians we have. By investing in our apprenticeship programme and ongoing technician training, we are beginning to address the shortfall in skilled engineers to support the drive towards decarbonisation and Net Zero.”
Carrier emphasises that according to government research, occupations in the HVAC sector, such as air-conditioning and refrigeration installers, are in elevated demand, while electrical engineers and electrical service and maintenance mechanics are ‘in critical demand’. The company says these findings ‘underscore the need for more young people to start technical training, integrated with college-based education and soft skills’.
Matthew Mayes, a final year Carrier Service apprentice based in Bromsgrove, was recognised last year for his achievements as one of three winners of Dudley College’s Apprentice of the Year 2024 award. He said: “Since joining Carrier, I’ve learned so much, and developed skills I never thought possible. The programme is excellent, with a perfect balance of hands-on training and theory. I’ve felt well supported, mentored, and really valued in my team. Carrier is a company that truly invests in its people and their future.”
In celebration of this week’s National Apprenticeship Week (running from 10-16 February), Carrier will also be hosting a two-day apprentice event – reportedly the first of its kind – featuring guest speakers, workshops, and ‘various activities designed to strengthen the sense of community within the organisation, while encouraging resilience and promoting fundamental behaviours among apprentices’.
“Our Academy will continue to provide a practical environment where apprentices and employees alike can hone their skills,” said Andrew Paddock, MD, Carrier Commercial HVAC UKI and Nordics. “By offering comprehensive training, support, and mentorship, we’re giving our apprentices the knowledge, skills, and behaviours, they need to become safety-focused and highly competent engineers. In addition, we are supporting them with digital literacy and instilling leadership qualities so they can enjoy long and successful careers with Carrier.”