With a generation of plumbers getting older, it’s time to think about imparting their decades of knowledge on to the next generation. 54% of the UK’s water utility workforce is over 45 years old. In 10-15 years, the youngest of this 54% will be entering their retirement years. What can we do to ensure the next plumbing generation perform at the level of their more experienced counterparts?
Possibly the best approach is sending the new generation out with the old as a learning experience. It’s not easy to quantify and collate experience. It’s unstructured and comes in the form of trial and error, communication and brief engineer notes. From trainees to those who have a few years under the belt, they can still learn from the aging generation.
Alongside sending new plumbers out with the more experienced, it’s also important to enroll them on training courses. Gaining certification can boost confidence, as well as teaching safety rules which may go overlooked by a worker who’s job has become habit.
Training courses are beneficial for the older generation too! Ensuring all staff are working to the best practices of the trade is beneficial, reduces risk and improves credibility. It really is worth it to invest in all of your employees.
Through training in different ways and different environments, you’re ensuring the best practices are being taught and used by new plumbers, as well as refreshing the memories of the workers who have been in the industry for years and will be for years to come.
If you’d like more info on our training courses, then get in touch with us on 01952 263114 or fill out our online enquiry form.
