A new training studio to help inspire the next generation of plumbers, air conditioning engineers and medical gas technicians has been unveiled by one of the UK’s leading copper pipe suppliers.
Coventry-based Lawton Tubes, which supplies copper tubing and fittings to more than 40 countries, has transformed its former 1940s boardroom into a modern recording studio for training sessions.
The space will see Lawton Tubes collaborating with experienced installers, colleges and trade associations to facilitate practical “how to” training sessions, that will also be featured on the firm’s YouTube channel.
Demonstrations will range from the basics of copper pipe and its characteristics, through to prepping, soldering and pressing pipes; as well as exploring modern tools and other practical advice aimed at the plumbing, air conditioning and medical gas sectors.
It comes as the UK needs to recruit around 48,000 skilled tradespeople a year over the next four years to meet demand, according to the CITB.
The studio investment is the latest commitment made by Lawton Tubes to champion installer trades to future generations, and builds on the firm’s ongoing visits to colleges to deliver hands-on demonstrations alongside experienced professionals such as third generation plumber and gas engineer, Peter Booth, also known as PB Plumber.
Robert Lawton, Marketing and Sales Director at Lawton Tubes, said: “Our old boardroom played host to some big decisions over the years that enabled our business to grow exponentially, and we are hoping its new use will play a part in doing the same in terms of inspiring new careers across the industry.
“These videos and sessions will be educational and informative to not only educate those starting out in the industry, but to showcase just how cool a career in a trade is and the varied roles available.
“We will be recording alongside experienced installers to not only show how to install the products we are well known for, but also to give away top tips of the trade.
“The best part is it will be freely available to training centres, colleges and trade associations to share with students and members alike – as the content we produce will complement and enhance college syllabuses.”
Peter Booth, who will be supporting Lawton Tubes with some of the videos, added: “As someone who’s spent years on the tools, I know how valuable it is to have practical, real-world guidance when you’re just starting out. That’s why I’m really proud to be supporting this initiative, as it’s all about giving the next generation of installers the tips, shortcuts, and confidence they need to do the job right – as well as providing insights to others considering a career in an installer trade.”
Adrian Ball is the co-ordinator and teacher of plumbing and gas at Derby College, who have recently hosted interactive sessions for their students with Lawton Tubes.
Adrian commented: “Colleges and learners will benefit greatly from expert-led training using simulated scenarios that they can visit in their free time, and use to continue learning and enhancing their skills.
“Industry partnerships are critical for developing real life skills for the next generation of plumbers and other installer trades.”
To keep up to date with Lawton Tubes’ training videos visit www.youtube.com/user/LawtonTubes
Lawton Tubes is an Industrial Associate of CIPHE, to see the full list of Industrial Associates check out the directory HERE