A WARM reception has been given to a Rugby heating company after two recent award triumphs.
Beth Jenkins, who works for Rugby-based Custom Heat, beat competition from across the UK to be named Heating and Plumbing Monthly’s (HMP) Apprentice of the Year 2025.
The 27-year-old, who switched careers from caring to the heating and plumbing industry, impressed judges with her exceptional technical skills and customer-focused approach.
Beth Jenkins with her HPM Apprentice of the Year Award.
Beth, who is currently working towards her City and Guilds Level 3 Plumbing and Heating qualification, was praised for bringing valuable interpersonal skills from her previous five-year career as a carer into the traditionally male-dominated trade.
Beth said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to receive this recognition. Making the decision to change careers at 26 was daunting, but I’ve never looked back.
“This award shows that it’s never too late to pursue your passion and that women can excel in this industry.”
Lincoln Smith, Managing Director of Custom Heat, added: “We couldn’t be prouder of Beth’s achievement. She consistently demonstrates exceptional skills both technically and with our customers.
“Beth exemplifies the kind of talent we foster at Custom Heat, and this award highlights our commitment to training the next generation of heating engineers regardless of gender or background.”
An awards judge said: “Beth is a role model of what you can achieve through dedication and commitment. Our industry offers opportunity for all and a solid career path, so Beth will never regret her investment in time achieving this apprenticeship.”
Beth has already demonstrated aptitude in servicing and maintaining various boiler systems, heating system conversions, and air conditioning basics. Her care-giving background has proven particularly valuable when working with elderly or vulnerable customers.
Beth is now aiming to qualify as a gas engineer and expand her expertise into renewable technologies, including solar thermal installations for domestic hot water heating.
Custom Heat also won the Boiler and Heating Installer & Contractor of the Year category at the region’s Energy Efficiency Awards.
The Somers Road based company carried out 700 energy efficiency boiler and heating installations in the last year.
There were 13 categories up for grabs at the awards ceremony in Kenilworth, attended by figures from the West Midlands energy efficiency industry.
Awards chairman Gary Braybrooke said: “The winners are leaders in energy efficiency in the UK and these awards are testament to their innovation, expertise and dedication to a greener future for us all.
“They are at the heart of transforming the way that energy is used, making a real difference to businesses and households throughout the country.”
Event organiser Kenneth Campbell added: “Each of our award recipients has set new benchmarks for what is possible in reducing energy consumption, cutting carbon emissions, and making a lasting impact on businesses, communities, and the environment.
“We hope that these awards not only celebrate past and present achievements, but also inspire others to push the boundaries of energy efficiency in the future.”
