We’re thrilled to share that one of our trainee installers, Kris Main, from our Perth office, was nominated earlier this year in the Rising Star category of the Heating Installer Awards 2025.
Kris is currently part way through his Emerging Technologies (non-gas route) SVQ Apprenticeship in partnership with Perth College. He joined IMS Heat Pumps in June 2023 and is expected to qualify in June 2027 after completing his 4-year programme. As a company, we’ve always been passionate about developing new talent – and currently have four apprentices based in our Perth office, at various stages of their journey.
The Rising Star category at the Heating Installer Awards is designed to celebrate apprentices who are still in training but already showing exceptional promise and dedication to the industry. The nomination process is a thorough one – Kris first submitted a detailed entry form highlighting his journey and achievements so far. He then completed a technical challenge to test his practical skills and problem-solving ability. Finally, a public vote (now closed) played a part in helping decide who takes home the award. The winner will be announced at the Installer Show at the NEC Birmingham on Wednesday 25th June – and we’ll be keeping everything crossed for Kris!
Kris stood out early on. His Senior Engineer recently commented:
“Of the current cohort of apprentices we have, Kris really stands out as both a quick learner and someone who is interested in gaining as much knowledge as possible. He is constantly asking questions and reaching for ‘what’s next’. He concentrates on what he is doing and keeps a clean and tidy job. Although only towards the end of his second year, Kris can confidently complete underfloor heating installations and radiator swaps, and has been second man on a number of ground and air source heat pump jobs.”
And it’s not just his colleagues who’ve noticed his potential – our customers have too. Here’s some recent feedback from jobs Kris has worked on:
“Just to say it’s been a real pleasure this week – the team seem to be doing a brill job and have been very lovely and patient with us, taking time to explain different elements as things have progressed. They’ve done a fab job too of squeezing the plant into a tight space, freeing up a lot of extra storage space for us – makes a big difference in a little cottage!”
– Donald Menzies, 08/11/2024
“I am extremely pleased with every aspect of the experience from start to finish.”
– Allister Fowler, 07/02/2025
“Kris and Cameron have done a great job on the UFH and rad’ plumbing – very professional – and an absolute pleasure to have them around.”
– Rod Harrison, 19/10/2024
We’ve also worked with the Local Storytelling Exchange to help share Kris’s inspiring journey – from serving in the Royal Navy to pursuing a new path in renewable heating. His story was recently featured in The Scotsman – and it’s well worth a read: From torpedoes to thermostats: Why this Perth apprentice ditched the Royal Navy for a career in heating
Everyone at IMS is incredibly proud of Kris and the progress he’s made. His nomination is not only a personal achievement, but also a reflection of what’s possible with dedication, great mentoring, and a strong team behind you.
Well done, Kris – we’re all behind you! Roll on the 25th!