MCS is celebrating National Apprenticeship Week (10-16 February) by highlighting the value of MCS certified installers taking on an apprentice.
We recently caught up with Mark Allison, owner of MCS certified solar PV and battery storage contractor, Power Sonic Ltd, and founder of Apprentice 121, a community supporting thousands of apprentices and employers across the UK, to chat with him about how apprentices contribute to his team’s success, the challenges and benefits of hiring one, and why he thinks apprenticeships are the only way to tackle the skills gap in the renewables industry.
Why did you decide to take on apprentices within your business?
Passing on skills and knowledge is essential, but it feels less common these days, which is a shame. Apprenticeships allow us to share expertise while building a team that aligns with our vision and values. They also address recruitment challenges by allowing us to develop skilled professionals who embody our work ethic and principles. In short: hiring an apprentice is a smart move.
How do your apprentices contribute to your team’s success?
Our apprentices play a big part in providing high-quality installations for our customers. They work alongside our qualified electricians, gaining hands-on experience while also building strong relationships with customers. One of our former apprentices has progressed so much that they now practically run the installation side of the business, which is fantastic.
What challenges have you faced when taking on apprentices, and how did you overcome them?
The biggest hurdles have been funding and finding a suitable training provider. Unfortunately, funding options are currently limited – it’s an area where the government needs to step in and reallocate resources, as too much funding is being lost within the private training sector. I have also founded Apprentice 121, a community supporting thousands of trainees and employers across the UK.
Would you recommend apprenticeships as a pathway for tackling the skills gap in the renewables industry?
Absolutely. I would say apprenticeships are in fact the only effective way to address the skills gap and build a talented, resilient workforce. It’s time to move away from the short-term fixes driven by previous political policies and embrace a long-term approach that delivers sustainable value for everyone, including taxpayers.
What would you say to other installers thinking about hiring an apprentice?
Prepare for the time, investment and resources during the first 6–12 months – it’s essential to plan and be prepared for that commitment. However, the long-term benefits are absolutely worth it. Investing in apprentices is investing in the future of your company.
We next caught up with Mark’s apprentice Nathan, who began his electrical installation apprenticeship in 2021 and is set to complete his end-point assessment in 2025.
What inspired you to pursue an apprenticeship in renewables?
My dad and brother work in the electrical contracting sector, and I wanted to join them in delivering renewable energy to more people. I also love to work outdoors so it was a win-win.
What skills have you gained through your apprenticeship?
So many! From working safely at height through to standard electrical work. It’s such a varied job – meeting customers and working in different places is a real highlight.
How has doing an apprenticeship helped kickstart your career in renewables?
It’s been fantastic. I’m nearly qualified now and excited to grow with the business.
What advice would you give someone thinking about starting an apprenticeship in renewables?
Go for it! Find a good employer (it’s not always easy) and put the work in right from the start. Apprenticeships are physically and mentally demanding, but they do bring brilliant career prospects.
Are you interested in hiring an apprentice for your renewable business? You can find out what funding is below.
You can also find out more about the Low Carbon Heating Apprenticeship here.