Gas emergency and pipeline service Wales & West Utilities has recruited 15 apprentices to support its multi-million-pound work across Wales and the south west of England.
The young people have joined the company’s award-winning apprenticeship scheme and will now help the company deliver for the communities that rely on its services across Wales and south west England.
Wales & West Utilities look after the pipes that keep the gas flowing to heat the homes and power the businesses of 7.5m people from Wrexham to Redruth. The company is the national gas emergency service for Wales and south west England and invest £2 million a week looking after the gas network.
This year’s intake takes the company to over 185 apprentices recruited since 2013 and demonstrates its commitment to attracting more young people into the gas industry.
The apprentices are joining the businesses operational team and their three-year training programme will include on the job training; working across the gas network with experienced engineers to learn job-specific skills, and classroom-based learning at one of Wales & West Utilities purpose-built training academies in Treforest and Bridgwater or at local colleges.
Wales & West Utilities People & Engagement Director, Sarah Hopkins, said:
“The apprentices we have recruited this year are part of the next generation of gas engineers.
“In the future, green gases like hydrogen and biomethane, alongside smart hybrid heating systems, will make home heating zero carbon by 2050. As the UK aims for Net Zero, they’ll work to maintain the gas network, keeping the gas flowing to heat homes, power businesses and keep the lights on in an affordable, reliable and green way.
“Apprenticeships are a great opportunity for people who want a hands-on career and to learn while they earn. We’re delighted with how our programme has grown since we started operations in 2005.”