Gas and domestic engineers are invited to attend the launch of Develop Training's new Trades and Energy Skills Centre later this month.

The centre will act as a one-stop venue where engineers can develop their basic to advanced professional qualifications for working with water, gas and electrics in domestic and industrial environments.

An open afternoon will take place on Thursday 19 September between 2pm and 5pm at Develop Training in Ascot Drive, Derby, followed by an official opening of the centre at 5.30pm by Chris Bielby MBE, president of the Association of Gas Safety Managers.

This will be followed by an ‘Installer Update’ networking event, which will be hosted by the Institute of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM).

Engineers attending the open afternoon or evening event will be able to take a tour of the new facility, speak to industry experts and review their training needs with a free qualification check.

John Kerr, business director of Develop Training’s utilities division, said: “It’s exciting to launch the Trades and Energy Skills Centre as the construction industry begins to turn a corner towards growth. This is great news for everyone who works in the gas and related domestic engineering community, and we are looking forward to supporting the sector with future training and development needs.

“The open afternoon is a great opportunity to take a look around the centre and speak to our many training experts about the utilities sector and multi-skilling. Everyone is welcome, from people who are looking to launch a new career to utilities engineers who are looking to develop their career and training capacity further.”

Peter Hardy, IGEM’s technical manager, added: “We are delighted to be at the new Trades and Energy Skills Centre on its official launch day. It is clear that Develop Training is looking to the future of the gas industry and IGEM fully support this approach.

“The training of new entrants to the gas industry and the development of existing operatives is a key requirement to ensure that the gas industry continues to operate to the highest industry standards. Without these types of facilities it would be difficult for people to get the necessary training to develop their skills, to ensure they operate safely in the field.”

Engineers can register for the open afternoon and evening event by calling Michelle Burton on 0800 876 6708.