As the power sector grapples with an aging workforce, with experienced electricians and engineers retiring at pace, Prism Power Group has long been focusing on training the next generation

This talent and skills shortage is putting grid reliability at risk, but Prism Power – with its HQ in Watford – now has in excess of 10 per cent of its workforce on apprenticeship ‘earn & learn’ schemes, which combine study with a breadth of practical experience both in the factory, design and production offices, as well as out in the field on site.

The company is also an elite Platinum member of The 5 per cent Club, which represents a powerful movement of prominent businesses focussed on driving momentum into the recruitment of apprentices, graduates, plus sponsored students – and making workplace training more inclusive, diverse, and accessible.

Adhum Carter Wolde-Lule, Director at Prism Power Group, explains: “Achieving the highest possible Platinum status puts us at the forefront of workplace learning innovation and underscores our belief that investment in new people is the cornerstone of success. Each year, we still commit to taking on a new cohort of apprentices to develop a thriving young workforce that diversifies our company and influences the development and growth of engineering for the future.

“The critical power industry and especially data centres relies on an increasingly thin layer of people who can actually design, commission, and maintain high integrity systems, so it’s imperative that we continue upskilling the next generation to help keep the lights on.

“With the responsibility of providing high-quality, resilient and bespoke manufactured power systems to a widening range of industries worldwide, we must have a talented and engaged team behind us. Through dedicated programmes that offer hands-on learning, we are creating targeted pathways for professional growth, equipping our young staff with the skills and confidence they need to thrive and become the leading engineers of tomorrow.”

As National Apprenticeship Week 2026 (9 – 15 February) fast approaches, two such individuals at Prism Power have gone on to qualify as highly competent engineers. Liam Ryan (age 26) started out as an apprentice fitter/wireman, but this quickly developed into working at onsite installations around the UK, as well as in the Prism factory mechanically and electrically assembling switchgear. He’s now a Test Engineer performing skilled LV testing and commissioning in the workshop and on-site, while also conducting factory and site acceptance tests.

Liam says: “It’s been a rewarding six years, with lots of opportunities coming my way and with Prism financially sponsoring me I’m also undertaking an HNC in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Uxbridge College to further my knowledge and skills in the industry. This could also open up doors into commissioning or controls engineer roles.

“The critical power sector is booming, both here and abroad, with our skills very much in demand – so it’s a great time to be involved – as it includes a variety of both established and developing industries, including data centres, hospitals, research facilities, manufacturing, schools, universities and more.”

James Mayhew (age 24) completed his engineering apprenticeship, supported by day-release study at college, rotating through key departments including design (CAD), mechanical fitting, electrical wiring and testing to build a broad technical foundation. He’s now taking an Electrical Installation course, also at Uxbridge College and backed by Prism.

James adds: “The pathway at Prism is great because they have structured improvement plans for their young employees involving both practical and theoretical learning. I’ve also developed strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities and I particularly like the on-site work where you’re surrounded by new people from other companies, all working together toward a shared goal.

“My aim is to specialise in electrical design and diagrams, but one thing for sure is the rapid shift towards electrification will continue, so I’m confident there are exciting prospects in the critical power industry, with long-term demand and opportunities for growth.”

For further information visit: https://www.prismpower.co.uk/

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