Starting a new career can be daunting. Whether you’re fresh out of school or a more mature person looking for a change, there’s a lot to think about. For people interested in learning a trade, gas engineering is a popular choice.
There has been some concern recently over whether this is still a viable career choice since the government is looking to ban the sale of new gas boilers by 2035. However, that’s not something you should worry about and you can read more in our detailed article, here.
If you’re considering becoming a gas engineer, there are plenty of training courses to choose from. However, a lot of people learn by doing and the best way to achieve this is by getting hands on experience. But how can you get experience as a gas engineer.?
One of the best ways to become a gas engineer is to undergo work experience. You can work alongside registered engineers and after six months, take an exam to assess your skills.
That said, this isn’t your only option. So, if you’re looking to gain experience and become a qualified gas engineer, this guide will help you explore those options.
What Is The Best Way To Become A Gas Engineer?
If you are looking to gain experience and become a gas engineer then the best way is to find work experience. It is very important to keep in mind that this work experience will likely be unpaid, although this will differ between companies and some may offer you a small wage. After all, even though you won’t be trained, you’ll still be a valuable extra set of hands.
Finding Work Experience
When looking for work experience, you will often have to call up companies to find out whether they are able to accommodate you.
You’ll find that there are lots of sole traders as well as larger companies that will be keen to have an assistant. Not only that, you’ll learn some valuable skills that can count towards your overall training.
Be patient when searching because, as we have mentioned, not all companies will be looking to take on work experience students. When contacting your chosen company, explain what you have to offer and what you’re looking to achieve as this will show how the arrangement can benefit all parties.
How Will Work Experience Benefit Me?
It might feel a little draining to have to spend six months working, for free, alongside trained engineers. After all, nobody wants to give up their time for nothing. But even though you might not be paid for your work experience, it certainly isn’t in vain.
Before you can qualify as a gas engineer, you are required to have at least six months on the job experience. So, this is a major driving force to find said work experience; without it, you won’t be able to reach your end goal of becoming qualified.
Moreover, having work experience is beneficial to you. Can you imagine qualifying as a gas engineer and turning up for your first day of work having no idea of what to expect? That’s a pretty scary concept. But by having spent those six months on the job, you’ll have a very good idea of what to do when you officially start work.
Even better, when you are looking for work, companies will be searching for applicants with the most amount of experience. The more time you can dedicate to learning on the job, the better this will look to prospective employers in the future. Even if you’re looking to start your own business, being able to tell clients that you’ve had extensive experience is always a plus.
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What Qualifications Do I Need To Become A Gas Engineer?
We have to stress that you cannot become a fully qualified gas engineer merely by spending six months shadowing a trained engineer. All gas engineers must complete formal training and receive certification before they are allowed to work. You must also be on the Gas Safety Register as you will be working in risky situations with highly flammable systems.
Moreover, you should keep in mind that, before you can qualify, you must have at least six months hands-on experience. This is why so many people are looking for work experience opportunities.
In order to qualify as a gas engineer, you will need to complete a relevant training course. We do have a more detailed guide on this but let’s briefly cover what to expect here.
Routes To Becoming A Gas Engineer
- The first option is to complete an apprenticeship. This is often an excellent choice as you will have your work experience included in the course. Apprentices spend part of their working week learning theory while the other half is spent on the job. Moreover, you will be paid the minimum apprentice wage for your age so you can earn as you learn.
- A lot of people opt to do a college course. This would be an NVQ Level 3 or a T Level.
- There are some companies that offer intensive gas engineer courses that can have you qualified in a matter of months as opposed to years.
- ACS gas training is a mandatory qualification for gas engineers and as well as being Gas Safe Registered, gas engineers must hold a current ACS certificate. Note that these courses must be retaken every five years.
Conclusion
If you want to become a gas engineer then you have to have completed at least six months on the job training. If you’re doing something like a college course then looking for work experience is a must. For apprentices, you’ll already be spending time on the job so this won’t matter as much.
Work experience is often unpaid but it comes with a range of benefits including better job prospects in the future. You’ll need to approach companies and explain what you’re looking for to find a placement.