Apprenticeships - bridging the skills gap in the building services sector

Caption: Ivy Malinowska, Dominic Houlbrook & Shannan Spruce outside Evotech's office

Evotech, a leading building performance company, is proud of its unwavering commitment to apprenticeships as a vital part of its talent development strategy. The company recognises the importance of nurturing and empowering young people and aims to provide them with valuable opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute to the building performance and maintenance industry. 

Apprenticeships have long been recognised as a powerful tool for bridging the skills gap and preparing individuals for successful careers. Evotech believes that investing in apprenticeships not only benefits the apprentices themselves, but also fosters innovation, diversity, and long-term success across the business. 

Through its comprehensive apprenticeship program and its partnership with Calderdale College, the company offers structured learning experience that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. This holistic approach equips apprentices with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive and by working alongside seasoned professionals and engaging in real-world projects, apprentices gain invaluable hands-on experience and develop a deep understanding of Evotech's innovative services. 

Evotech's apprenticeship program focuses on a variety of disciplines, from mechanical and electrical engineers to administrative roles. The company has been working in partnership with Calderdale College for a number of years to ensure the curriculum aligns with industry standards and provides apprentices with a solid foundation for their future careers. 

Dominic Houlbrook started as an apprentice helpdesk co-ordinator back in 2017 and has since concluded his training and has been working as a fully fledged helpdesk co-ordinator at Evotech’s headquarters in Elland for nearly four years. Starting on a one year Level 1 Business Administration apprenticeship he later extended it for another year to finish with a Level 2. He says “I didn’t know what I wanted to do when I left school. My apprenticeship gave me the opportunity to earn and learn and at the same time I was able to get some experience under my belt. On completing my apprenticeship, I was offered a full time permanent role which I accepted as I enjoy the work and I’m surrounded by a great team and a supportive environment.”   

The company believes in fostering a supportive environment that encourages collaboration, creativity, and continuous learning for all and, in addition to on the job training, apprentices will also benefit from mentorship opportunities.   

"We firmly believe that apprenticeships are a key driver of innovation and talent development," says Evotech’s Managing Director Mark O’Grady. "By investing in the next generation of building performance professionals, we are not only creating a pipeline of skilled individuals, but also cultivating a culture of lifelong learning and growth within our organisation." 

Michael Howarth, a Senior Technical Engineer and one of Evotech’s longest serving team members, having worked for the company for eleven years, says, “My apprenticeship provided me with a solid foundation in mechanical engineering and equipped me with practical skills that I could apply from day one. The hands-on experience and mentorship I received were invaluable in shaping my career and since completing my apprenticeship Evotech has provided ongoing training and development opportunities that have supported my career progression with the company.”

Current apprentices include Helpdesk Apprentice, Shannan Spruce who is in the final year of her apprenticeship and HR Co-ordinator, Ivy Malinowska is taking advantage of a further education apprenticeship to add to her professional HR qualifications. And, the company looks forward to welcoming two new office based apprentices later this Summer. 

Evotech encourages individuals who are passionate about engineering and smart building technology who are eager to kick-start their careers to apply for its regularly advertised apprenticeship positions. The company is committed to providing equal opportunities and promoting diversity, ensuring that its workforce reflects the vibrant and inclusive nature of the building services sector.

Read our case study on the Calderdale College website