The last few years have seen gas engineers regularly touted as one of the most in-demand trades in the UK. However, with so much talk in the industry focusing on its need to shift towards more sustainable technologies, many might be left wondering whether there is a long-term future for the profession. 

Below, we’ll take a look at why gas should still be seen as an attractive career path, and a few of the key factors and projects that will continue to drive activity in the sector in both the short and long-term future

Repair and maintenance of existing gas appliances

While a total gas boiler ban had previously been touted for 2035, comments made prior to the general election by Ed Miliband suggest this target could now be scrapped by Labour. 

Speaking to The Telegraph, Miliband insisted that while increasing the use of heat pumps and other low-carbon heating alternatives would still be a major focus, Labour “hasn’t stuck with the Government’s 2035 target” regarding that much-talked-about boiler ban. 

Given this development, the current skill set of experienced gas engineers is likely to be just as sought-after for at least the next decade as existing supplies and appliances still dominate the majority of UK homes. 

The role of gas engineers in the green transition

In its new Energy Independence Act, Labour says it wants to create 650,000 jobs by ‘investing in the industries of the future’. Gas engineers will almost certainly be impacted by this, and hold a significant role in the construction industry’s green transition. 

As the focus gradually shifts away from traditional energy sources, we’ve already seen heat pumps emerge as one of the most common alternatives for homeowners. However, innovation charity Nesta has found that finding staff with suitable knowledge was still one of the largest barriers to heat pump installation. 

One-third of respondents to the charity’s survey have cited a lack of installers as the biggest obstacle to the technology’s adoption. Combine this with Labour specifically including low-carbon heating alternatives within their £6.6bn Warm Homes Plan, and gas engineers willing to upskill in this field will likely find the skill set in increasingly high demand. 

Labour has also pledged £500m towards the manufacturing of green hydrogen. Again, the skills and knowledge of gas engineers will be integral when it comes to the decommissioning of old supplies, and the installation, maintenance and repairs of these new lines and appliances. 

Demand for gas engineers

Between the ongoing need for engineers with an understanding of existing gas supplies and appliances, and the growing demand for engineers with knowledge of green technologies, the future looks bright for gas engineers. While in the long-term there will be some need for upskilling, much of the underpinning knowledge already held by experienced engineers will transfer directly over to these emerging technologies, making the transition a smooth one for most. 

If a career in gas is something that you’re interested in, Able Skills offers a range of courses suited to all levels of experience. Whether you’re a complete newcomer to the industry, or are already working in a connected trade like plumbing, you can find a course to suit you here.