Plumbing industry 'in favour of EngTech'

The Engineering Council is supported by professional plumbers, although more needs to be done to promote what registration as an engineering technician (EngTech) means and what it stands for.

This is according to new research carried out by the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineers (CIPHE), titled 'Industry Perception - Across the UK'.

One of the main findings of the report was that the overwhelming majority of respondents (98 per cent) believed career progression should receive more of a focus than it currently does, while more than four-fifths (83 per cent) were of the view that apprenticeships should lead towards individuals registering with EngTech.

However, it was also suggested that more needed to be done to raise awareness of the benefits of membership of the organisation, with individuals and employers both failing to understand exactly what the plus points are.

CIPHE chief executive Kevin Wellman said: "This reinforces our collective responsibility in promoting the benefits of Engineering Technician registration. Professional recognition is the key to raising standards in the industry."

The study investigated the wider issue of what the barriers are to professional recognition for the plumbing and domestic heating sector and what the industry's perceptions are on the matter. 

Among the issues covered were the current length of apprenticeships, how trainees are assessed and what content they are learning about.

It's hoped the insight gained will enable the development of the new apprenticeship standard - known as Trailblazer.

As a result of the findings, it has been recommended that more awareness campaigns take place to promote EngTech registration and careers in the plumbing sector, along with clear messages about how professional recognition can be achieved.

The report was also led by standard setting organisation SummitSkills, with operations manager Jacqui Chivers describing it as "valuable", while ensuring the Trailblazer scheme will be "truly fit for purpose".

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