Twenty weeks into their training, Calisen’s all-female smart meter apprentice cohort has completed the Power phase of the programme and is already ahead of schedule.
The milestone is more than a sign of strong individual progress. As the energy industry works to attract more diverse talent into critical technical roles, the cohort is demonstrating what can be achieved when new routes into the sector are backed by structured training and support.
Now in the first few weeks of gas training, the apprentices are taking the next step towards becoming fully qualified Dual Fuel Smart Meter Engineers.
From Power to Gas
Completing the power phase marks a significant milestone for the cohort, equipping the apprentices with the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to carry out power only smart metering work safely and effectively.
Throughout this stage of the programme, the group consistently met, and in many cases exceeded, the expected learning outcomes. Their progress has put the cohort ahead of planned completion dates and provided a strong foundation as they move into the next stage of their training.
Gas training brings a new set of technical challenges, but the apprentices have continued to demonstrate the same engagement, resilience and commitment they have shown since the programme began.
Kevin Smith, Head of Technical Training, said, “The group has shown exceptional commitment and enthusiasm throughout the programme. Although many have found the gas training more challenging than the Power phase, they have embraced the learning, supported one another and remained fully focused on achieving their goals.”
What Comes Next?
Over the coming months, the apprentices will continue developing their gas metering knowledge and practical competence while beginning to build their Dual Fuel apprenticeship portfolios. This will involve gathering evidence of the skills, knowledge and behaviours they have developed throughout the programme.
Once the gas training phase is complete, the cohort will move on to their ACS gas assessments, an important industry-recognised demonstration of competence in gas metering activities. Subject to successful completion, they will then progress towards Gas Safe registration, another major step on their journey towards working as fully qualified Dual Fuel Smart Meter Engineers.
The final stages of the apprenticeship will focus on preparing the cohort for End-Point Assessment (EPA). Dedicated EPA readiness activities will help ensure they understand what to expect and are prepared for the assessment process, with the apprentices expected to enter their EPA window from January onwards.
The Head of Technical Training said:
“We’re extremely proud of the progress the cohort has made. Every apprentice is ahead of schedule, fully engaged and demonstrating the determination needed to succeed in a highly skilled technical role. Their commitment and professionalism have been outstanding.”
Building Skills and Creating Opportunities
The progress made so far reflects the commitment of the apprentices themselves, alongside the support provided by the training team, mentors and operational colleagues throughout the programme.
It also demonstrates the wider opportunity apprenticeships can provide. The energy industry needs to attract and develop people from a broader range of backgrounds to build the skills needed for the future. Creating accessible routes into technical careers, supported by high-quality training and assessment, is an important part of making that happen.
For this cohort, there are still several milestones ahead. But with the power phase successfully completed, gas training underway and every apprentice currently ahead of schedule, they are making strong progress towards becoming fully qualified Dual Fuel Smart Meter Engineers and beginning their careers in the field.
At Energy & Environment Awards, we work with employers and training providers to support the development of skilled, competent people across the energy and utilities sector. If you’re looking at how apprenticeships and industry-recognised qualifications could support your future workers, get in touch with us to find out how we can help.
