Education and skills are at the top of the IOR’s agenda, and we’re launching two new initiatives this month where members' input will make a real difference.

1. Have Your Say: IOR Skills Needs Survey

Skills shortages. Training gaps. Too few new entrants. These are issues raised at almost every industry meeting. But how big is the problem, and what should we do about it?  We’re asking employers and training providers to take part in our IOR Skills Needs Survey. Your input will shape practical solutions such as:

  • Supporting new apprenticeships
  • Expanding training for designers
  • Promoting careers in RACHP

This is your chance to influence the future skills agenda.

👉 Complete the survey here: 

 

2. Building Bridges: Outreach to Schools, Colleges & Employers

 The IOR's Presidents' Fund for Education is funding an Education Outreach Officer project for 6 months to engage in a programme of :

  • Visiting schools, colleges and employers to raise awareness of RACHP careers
  • Mapping training needs across the sector
  • Exploring partnerships with STEM organisations and careers fairs
  • Reviewing apprenticeships and tapping into funding opportunities

If you (or someone you know) has experience working with schools and colleges and can prepare evaluation reports based on primary research, we’d love to hear from you. 

📩 View the job description and project plan here

📧 Employers, colleges, and schools interested in supporting this initiative, please contact us at ior@ior.org.uk

 

 

Recent posts

About

About the IOR

23 Apr 2026

The Institute of Refrigeration is the professional engineering body for all individuals working in RACHP. Find out more about the IOR here. 

News
What We Do

What we do

23 Apr 2026

Find out what the IOR can do for you: technical queries, safety codes of practice, new  technologies and professional development.

News
Untitled Design 5

Join us

23 Apr 2026

When you become a member of the Institute of Refrigeration you are joining a group of specialist experts driving the sector forward.

News
Mike Tinsley

Tinsley Fund: Open for Applications

20 May 2026

The Tinsley Fund was set up in memory of Mike Tinsley and offers targeted financial help for people facing barriers to entering or progressing in the refrigeration and air conditioning sector.

Education
RAC CIA26 Social Media 1080x1350

Do You Know An Oustanding Student or Apprentice?

20 May 2026

The deadline for the RAC and IOR National Student of the Year Cooling Industry Award has been extended to 29 May, which means there’s still time to put forward the exceptional students you know and help them gain the recognition they deserve.

News