Rugby and Coventry based Custom Heat will see Beth Jenkins, 28, Caleb Hill, 21, and Liam Hazelwood, 23, all from Rugby, complete their City & Guilds Level 3 plumbing and heating qualifications this year, alongside three other apprentices.
The apprentices form part of the next generation of skilled engineers entering the industry, at a time when demand for qualified heating and plumbing professionals is increasing across the Midlands.
The milestone comes as the heating industry faces a growing skills shortage. There are currently around 130,000 gas engineers registered with the Gas Safe Register, but with around half aged over 55, an estimated 65,000 could retire within the next decade. The figures highlight the importance of apprenticeship programmes in securing the future workforce.
Beth switched careers from the care sector to join Custom Heat’s apprenticeship programme and was crowned HPM Apprentice of the Year 2025. She was recognised for bringing strong communication and customer care skills into the traditionally male dominated industry.
Caleb initially started out in vehicle maintenance before switching to plumbing after realising he wanted a different hands on career. Liam discovered his passion for the trade while working in construction.
“The support from Custom Heat has been amazing, I can’t fault them,” said Liam. “If anyone is thinking of doing an apprenticeship, I would 100 per cent recommend it.”
Caleb added: “Custom Heat has been great. Everyone I’ve worked with has been willing to teach me everything I need to know.”
Lincoln Smith, Managing Director of Custom Heat, said: “We couldn’t be prouder of these apprentices. They’ve shown real dedication and skill throughout their training and represent exactly the kind of talent the industry needs. Over the past decade, we’ve supported around 25 apprentices because investing in the next generation isn’t just good for our business, it’s essential for the future of the heating sector.”
Custom Heat operates across the Midlands and South West and has also gained recognition for its employment practices, including the successful introduction of a four day working week with Gold Standard accreditation, while maintaining high levels of customer service.
National Apprenticeship Week runs from 9 - 15 February 2026, with this year’s theme focusing on Skills for Life.
