Industry joins forces with colleges to tackle the UK's low-carbon skills shortage

Daikin UK and Quantum Training strengthen partnership to build a scalable national model for low-carbon heating skills.

A new partnership agreement between heating and cooling specialist Daikin UK and education specialist Quantum Training, builds on the organisations' successful existing collaboration and will help prepare the next generation of engineers for careers in the UK's growing low-carbon economy by bringing industry expertise and specialist training into Further Education colleges. As part of the agreement, Daikin will train tutors, provide ongoing technical support, and help promote apprenticeships and career opportunities across 12 new partner colleges, as well as the 46 colleges across the UK where Daikin equipment has already been installed.

The initiative comes as skills shortages continue to be recognised as one of the biggest barriers to achieving the UK's net zero ambitions, with greater national focus on expanding technical education and creating clearer pathways into skilled employment. 

Over the next 12 months, the partnership will support up to 12 Further Education colleges across the UK, with a focus on colleges in areas where Daikin is working alongside local and combined authorities to accelerate the transition to low-carbon heating. The programme will give students hands-on experience with the latest low-carbon heating technologies, while supporting tutors with specialist training, technical expertise and curriculum development, aligned to the latest industry standards.

Each participating college will receive a donated Daikin equipment package installed by Quantum Training, including an air source heat pump, buffer vessel, cylinder and Flexi Feet, giving students access to the same technology they will encounter in industry.

Alongside the equipment, Daikin will deliver dedicated tutor training at its National Training Centres, provide ongoing technical support and work with colleges to promote apprenticeship opportunities and careers within the rapidly growing low-carbon heating sector. The partnership will also see Daikin contribute its technical expertise to the development of the Year 3 content for the NOCN Group Low Carbon Heating Technician Diploma, helping ensure future qualifications continue to reflect the skills employers need.

By strengthening links between education and industry, the programme aims to create clearer progression routes into employment while helping address the UK's shortage of skilled low-carbon heating professionals.

Maria Gonella, Managing Director at Quantum Training, said: "We are incredibly proud to be partnering with Daikin UK in a shared commitment to strengthening the future low-carbon workforce. We believe education is the catalyst for impact, and by bringing industry-leading technologies into practical learning environments within Further Education colleges, alongside structured career pathway curriculum, we are enabling learners and educators to develop the knowledge, confidence and practical skills to pursue meaningful careers in the low-carbon sector.

"This partnership reflects Daikin's commitment to creating lasting social value through education, strengthening the connection between learners and industry while supporting the development of the future low-carbon workforce."

Rachel McCrystal, Social Impact and Sustainability Manager at Daikin UK, said: "The transition to low-carbon heating relies on having a skilled workforce ready to deliver it. That's why the reach of this partnership is about more than donating equipment. By investing in tutors, supporting colleges and helping shape future qualifications, we're creating opportunities for young people to gain the practical skills and confidence they need to build rewarding careers in an industry that is central to the UK's net zero ambitions.

The programme will be monitored throughout the year, measuring college participation, tutor training, equipment installations and student engagement, with the ambition of creating a scalable national model that can support the future skills needs of the low-carbon heating sector.

About Daikin UK

Daikin has been a global leader in climate control for over 100 years, delivering high-performance cooling, heating, ventilation, and refrigeration solutions. Its innovative technologies improve indoor air quality and comfort while supporting a more sustainable future. Committed to achieving net zero CO₂ emissions by 2050, Daikin is driving the UK’s transition to green energy with low-carbon heat pumps and a whole-life approach to building decarbonisation. From product design to recycling, the company focuses on reducing environmental impact at every stage. Daikin’s mission is simple: to create smarter, healthier, and more comfortable indoor environments - for every home, every space, and everyone.

About Quantum Training

Founded in 1997, Quantum Group has been delivering commercial and domestic decarbonisation solutions for nearly three decades. In response to the growing need for skilled professionals in the green economy,  Quantum Training was launched four years ago to provide dedicated training products and services that directly address the green skills gap. With installations in numerous colleges across the UK, Quantum’s focus is on equipping the next generation with the practical knowledge and hands-on experience needed to drive the transition to a low-carbon future.