Female plumbing learners can test their skills in 2023
HIP has launched its first national Female Skills Competition for female plumbing learners. HIP, which organises the HIP Learner of the Year competition, aims to build confidence and advocates skills development, along with getting the best people into the industry regardless of their gender.
Level 2 and 3 plumbing students of all ages will be able to compete in a live practical installation for the chance to win a place in the grand final on 30 March 2023. Two regional heats in February and March will see the top three from each heat will go on to compete in the Final at Loughborough College.
Competitors will be judged on practical tasks by Jerry Whiteley, CIPHE’s technical manager; professional plumber Becky Bates and Glenn Scholfield from Pegler. Becky says: “This exciting platform is just the place for women to feel confident in showing off their incredible skills and knowledge they have gained so far. It enables them to step into the limelight and showcase to other women the kinds of opportunities that are available.”
HIP managing director Zoë Tanner adds: “We’re thrilled to see the HIP Female Skills Competition launch this year, and it’s been immensely encouraging to see the competition being supported by so many big names from the industry. It’s a fantastic way for learners to build their confidence and take pride in their work. Now more than ever is the time to support the next generation of plumbing and heating talent.”
More information and how to enter here.
HIP Learner of the Year
HIP Learner of the Year is also back for 2023. Now in its 14th year, the competition is a platform for apprentice and student plumbers to show off their skills, build confidence and win an array of prizes to support them at the very start of their careers.
Level 2 and 3 plumbing students will compete in six regional heats across England and Wales in January and February.
The winner of each competition heat will go on to compete against one another in the Grand Final, which will take place in April at Worcester Bosch’s head office 3. Along with the prestige for the student and the college for winning a national competition, there are fantastic prizes up for grabs.
Last year’s winner was Ruben Duggan, from Coleg Y Cymoedd. When asked what Ruben would say to those thinking of entering the competition this year, he said: “Definitely get in it. You don’t know your strengths and weaknesses until they’re tested [and] the competition is a fantastic opportunity. It’s a massive thing to put on your CV. I think it will impress any of the big manufacturers and it’s given me so much confidence so it’s a big, big win.”
Find out more here.
