Tulloch PriestCo-founder, Gas Engineer Software · Co-founder of Gas Engineer Software

The Value Of Apprentices Outweighs The Financial Costs

2 Dec 2025 · 1 min

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In this monologue, the speaker argues that training apprentices is essential for sustaining the next generation of heating engineers despite the significant financial and mental expenses involved. They explain that early-stage work slows down because the trainer must explain tasks and adapt teaching methods to each apprentice, likening the experience to parenting or starting a business for the first time. The initial period feels unproductive, as if the trainer is a swan with its legs hidden underwater. However, the speaker notes that once apprentices become competent, they begin handling jobs independently, easing the trainer’s workload and delivering tangible benefits, thereby justifying the upfront costs.

Chapters

Training apprentices is bringing forward the next generation of heating engineers, so that's important. It's expensive, but it's important, and mentally expensive I would say as well. Jobs take longer at the beginning because you're trying to explain everything and you're trying to teach in a way that suits the person. A bit like having a child or going self-employed for the first time. There's a lot of effort at the beginning where you feel like you don't really— you don't— you're not getting anywhere, like you're a swan with your legs under the water. But then there comes a point where they start doing jobs for you and they start making the day go easier. And they understand things.