In a groundbreaking step for the heating industry, Derby College Group and Vailant UK, are leading the way with the first Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprentices, with support from IMS heat pumps. Four apprentices – Alex, Callum, Lewis, and Toby – have embarked on the next phase of their development through their pioneering apprenticeship. These apprentices are gaining invaluable hands-on experience in low-carbon heating installations, addressing the critical skills gap essential to achieving the UK’s net-zero targets.
We sat down with the apprentices to learn more about their experience so far, what they’ve discovered on-site, and what excites them most about shaping the low carbon future of heating.
Q: What have you enjoyed the most about working at IMS Heat Pumps so far?
Callum: “What I’ve enjoyed most is the hands-on aspect of the job. Being able to get stuck in with real work alongside the engineers has been brilliant. I’ve learned so much just by being out on-site, helping out, and watching how the team operates. Everyone has been really patient and supportive, which makes a big difference when you’re learning. It’s not just about the physical work either – I’ve enjoyed being part of the team, building relationships, and feeling like I’m contributing to something important.”
Toby: “For me, it’s all about getting out on-site, rolling up my sleeves, and learning as much as I can. It’s one thing to learn in a classroom, but actually seeing how things work in practice is a whole different level. The team here at IMS have been incredibly welcoming. They’ve made me feel like a valued part of the team right from day one, which really motivates me to learn and do my best.”
Lewis: “The best part has been working with the different engineers and seeing how they all approach an installation. It’s fascinating because each person has their own tricks and techniques, but they all produce top-quality work. Watching their attention to detail and learning from their experience has been invaluable. I also really enjoy being part of a team that takes pride in what they do.”
Alex: “I’ve loved being hands-on with the engineers and getting involved in the work. It’s not just about learning skills – it’s about seeing how those skills are applied on real jobs. The team have been so helpful and approachable, and I’ve enjoyed getting to know everyone. It’s been great to feel like part of the company so quickly.”
Q: What has been the most interesting or surprising thing you’ve learned since starting?
Callum: “I had no idea how much work goes into a single heat pump installation. From planning to the actual physical install, there’s so much to think about – pipework, wiring, positioning the unit, making sure everything works perfectly. It’s been eye-opening, but it’s also really rewarding when you see it all come together.”
Toby: “I’ve been surprised by just how different a ground source heat pump is compared to an air source system. I always thought they were quite similar, but seeing the differences up close – how they’re installed and how they operate – has been really interesting. It’s given me a much deeper understanding of the technology.”
Lewis: “I was amazed at how quickly some installations can be completed. I used to think it would take weeks, but depending on the site and system, some jobs can be finished in just a few days. It shows how efficient the process can be when you have a skilled team working together.”
Alex: “I’d always used soldering for pipe connections before, so it was a surprise to see IMS using crimping. I’d never done it before, but I’ve found it’s so much more efficient. It’s one of those small changes that makes a big difference on-site.”
Q: What’s a typical day like for you as an apprentice at IMS Heat Pumps?
Callum: “A typical day starts with getting on-site for about 8am. I’ll meet up with the engineer and start helping straight away – whether that’s moving tools, preparing pipework, or assisting with whatever the job needs. I spend a lot of time watching and learning, but I also get the chance to do practical tasks myself, which is great for building confidence. We usually wrap up around 4pm after packing up and making sure everything’s clean and tidy.”
Toby: “I’ll usually arrive at the site around 8am and shadow the engineer I’m paired with for the day. I’ll ask lots of questions, take in as much as I can, and get stuck into tasks like piping up cylinders, core drilling, or lagging. Every day is a little different, which keeps it interesting. By the end of every day, I feel like I’ve learned something new and useful.”
Lewis: “I check my schedule first thing in the morning to confirm where I’m going, then I head to the site to meet up with the engineer. I’ll start by helping with any prep work, like making space or getting tools ready. During the day, I watch, assist, and ask questions. I also try to get hands-on as much as possible to build my skills. We clean up at the end of the day, and I always check my schedule for the next day before heading home.”
Alex: “The day usually starts around 8am, and it’s straight into shadowing the engineer and helping out with the practical work. I’ll get involved in tasks like pipe bending, crimping, or positioning equipment. It’s really hands-on, which I enjoy, and the day flies by because there’s always something to do.”
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in low-carbon heating?
Callum: “I’ve always liked working with my hands, so I knew I wanted a practical job. When I learned about heat pumps and the role they play in creating a greener future, it just made sense to me. It’s rewarding to know that I’m helping to build a better, more sustainable world.”
Toby: “I wanted to do something hands-on, but I also wanted to feel like I was making a difference. Working in low-carbon heating is the perfect balance – it’s practical work that contributes to a greener future. That’s what motivates me.”
Lewis: “I’ve always been passionate about the environment, so when I found out about heat pumps, it seemed like the perfect career. It lets me combine my interest in sustainability with my love for hands-on work.”
Alex: “The goal of achieving net zero really inspires me. I want to be part of the solution, reducing pollution and creating a cleaner, healthier future.”
Lee Brown, Operations Director here at IMS Heat Pumps, praised the apprentices’ attitude and dedication to their work: “From day one, all four apprentices have really impressed us. They’ve fitted in with the team brilliantly, showing enthusiasm, a real willingness to learn, and a great attitude to getting stuck in on-site. So far, they’ve adapted quickly, asked the right questions, and shown that they’re here to make a difference. We’re excited to see how they progress as they gain more experience.”
Vaillant and Derby College’s pioneering apprentices are not just learning how to install renewable heating systems with IMS Heat Pumps – they’re gaining the skills and experience to lead the UK’s transition to sustainable energy. Their enthusiasm, hands-on training, and commitment to a greener future highlight the importance of real-world apprenticeships in closing the skills gap and achieving net-zero goals.
As Lee said, “They’ve fitted in brilliantly, showing a real willingness to learn and an impressive enthusiasm for the work.”
This next generation of engineers is proving that the future of low-carbon heating is in safe hands. With their passion, dedication, and growing expertise, Callum, Lewis, Alex and Toby are not just building careers – they’re building a better, future for us all. Their journey so far is just the beginning, and it’s clear that they each have a bright future ahead as leaders in the renewable heating industry.