How to become a thermal insulation installer
There are several routes to becoming a thermal insulation installer. You can start on your career path by studying on a college course, an apprenticeship, or by applying directly to an employer.
You should explore these options to becoming a thermal insulation installer, to see which is right for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.
You'll need a Thermal Insulation Contractors Association (TICA) skill card to train and work on commercial and industrial sites
You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.
College/training provider
You may have to attend a specialist college/training provider to train as a thermal insulation installer.
To study these courses, you’ll generally need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent
Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship with a construction firm is a good way into the industry. Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you will be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.
To become a thermal insulation installer, you could complete a thermal insulation operative and technician intermediate or advanced apprenticeship.
To gain entry onto the apprenticeship, you’ll generally need:
- Some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship.
Work
If you have previous experience in a relevant area of construction, such as a labourer in a heating engineering or construction company, you may be able to complete on the job training to become a thermal insulation installer. Alternatively, you could start out as a trainee assistant to a more experienced thermal insulation installer and progress as your abilities improve.
Work experience
Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works in the construction industry. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.
Skills
Additional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a thermal insulation installer include:
- Knowledge of building and construction
- To be thorough and pay attention to detail
- The ability to use your initiative
- The ability to work well with your hands
- Knowledge of maths
- Persistence and determination
- The ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
- Excellent verbal communication skills
- To be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device.
