The publication of the Skills England Annual Skills Report 2026 provides a timely reminder that skills are now one of the most critical factors influencing the future success of the UK economy. For the refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump (RACHP) sector, the report reinforces many of the challenges that employers, training providers and professional bodies have been discussing for several years.

The report highlights persistent skills shortages, an ageing workforce in many technical sectors, the increasing demand for higher-level technical skills and the need to attract more young people into meaningful careers. It also recognises the importance of employer-led training, apprenticeships and continuous professional development in ensuring the workforce remains equipped to meet future demand.

These findings resonate strongly with the RACHP sector.

As the UK continues its transition towards net zero, the demand for skilled engineers, technicians and specialists in refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump technologies is expected to grow significantly. The industry is already playing a central role in supporting decarbonisation, energy efficiency, food security, healthcare, manufacturing and the wider built environment. However, achieving these ambitions will depend on having a workforce with the right skills, knowledge and professional competence.

The report's emphasis on employer engagement is particularly important. Employers remain best placed to identify emerging skills requirements and ensure training reflects the realities of modern workplaces. Across the RACHP sector, many businesses are already investing in apprenticeships, mentoring programmes, professional registration and continuing professional development. These efforts will need to continue and expand if the industry is to meet future workforce demands.

Skills England also highlights the impact of new technologies and artificial intelligence on the labour market. While AI will undoubtedly transform some aspects of work, the RACHP industry continues to rely heavily on practical engineering expertise, problem-solving ability, safety awareness and professional judgement. Future technicians will need a combination of technical excellence, digital capability and adaptability to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven environment.

Perhaps most importantly, the report shines a spotlight on the need to engage more young people with training and employment opportunities. This presents a significant opportunity for the RACHP industry. Our sector offers rewarding careers, clear progression routes and the chance to contribute directly to some of society's most pressing challenges, including sustainability and climate resilience. By promoting the industry more effectively and strengthening links between employers, schools, colleges and training providers, we can help attract the next generation of talent.

The Institute of Refrigeration has long championed professional development, skills excellence and lifelong learning. The findings within the Skills England report reinforce the importance of this work. Through apprenticeships, CPD, professional registration, technical training and collaboration with industry partners, we can continue to support a highly skilled and competent workforce that meets both current and future industry needs.

The UK's skills challenge cannot be solved by government alone. It requires collaboration between employers, professional bodies, educators and individuals. The RACHP sector has an important role to play, and by working together we can ensure the industry remains innovative, resilient and equipped for the opportunities ahead.

The Skills England report provides a clear message: investment in skills is investment in growth. For the RACHP industry, that investment has never been more important. This is precisely why the IOR Industry Skills Alliance was established.

The Industry Skills Alliance brings together employers, professional bodies, training providers, awarding organisations and industry stakeholders to identify workforce challenges, shape future skills provision and develop practical solutions that support the long-term growth of the sector. Through employer-led collaboration, the Alliance is helping to strengthen apprenticeship pathways, improve workforce development, raise awareness of careers within RACHP and ensure training remains aligned to the evolving needs of industry.

By working collectively, we can influence the future skills agenda, address current and emerging skills gaps, and ensure the RACHP sector has the skilled workforce needed to support innovation, sustainability and economic growth.

We encourage all professionals in the sector to become part of this important initiative and help shape the future of our industry. To learn more and join the conversation, we invite you to attend the next Industry Skills Alliance event on 2 July 2026.

Full report – Skills England: annual skills report 2026

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