Two apprentice engineers from Industrial Cooling Equipment Ltd (ICE), a refrigeration specialist based in Runcorn, have been recognised on the national stage after securing top honours at the 2025 ACR & Heat Pump Trainee of the Year Awards.
The ceremony, hosted at the Leeds Marriott Hotel, brought together organisations from across the refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump industries to recognise excellence and champion the next generation of engineering professionals.
ICE apprentices Luc Dwyer and Samuel Jones each claimed national titles in their respective disciplines, representing a major achievement for both individuals and highlighting the strength of the company’s apprenticeship programme.
Luc Dwyer was awarded Air Conditioning Trainee of the Year following a period of rapid development within the business. Having started his apprenticeship in the service department, he later transitioned into installation work, where his technical skills and confidence advanced quickly. He has since contributed to increasingly demanding projects, including specialist work on a new MRI facility.
“I’m incredibly proud to be named Apprentice of the Year in air conditioning,” Luc said. “This achievement reflects countless hours of learning, persistence, and dedication. It proves that hard work, commitment and believing in the process truly pay off. I’m grateful for the support that helped me reach this milestone.”
Colleagues at ICE describe Luc as professional, diligent and highly committed, with his award seen as a clear reflection of the quality of his work and the strong rapport he builds with clients.
Samuel Jones was named Refrigeration Trainee of the Year, receiving national recognition shortly after earning a silver medal at the WorldSkills UK National Finals. In just three years with ICE, Sam has progressed into a trusted installation engineer, delivering complex refrigeration, air conditioning and ventilation projects.
Sam is widely recognised within the business for his enthusiasm for the trade, regularly undertaking independent study and investing in his own tools to continuously improve his skills. His composed approach on site and strong technical competence have earned consistent praise from both customers and colleagues.
“I’m really made up to receive this award for the hard work I’ve put in during my apprenticeship,” Sam said. “I’m grateful the judges have recognised my efforts, and I couldn’t have achieved it without the guidance and support of my dedicated mentors.”
ICE views the achievements of its apprentices as evidence of its long-standing commitment to workforce development. In response to ongoing skills shortages across the refrigeration and cooling sector, the company made a strategic decision five years ago to prioritise training and talent development.
More than half of ICE’s current engineering team began their careers as apprentices with the business. Many have since advanced into senior positions and now support the development of new apprentices, creating a sustainable cycle of learning and progression.
Apprentices at ICE gain experience across both installation and service roles, allowing them to build a comprehensive understanding of the business before selecting a specialism. Alongside hands-on experience, they complete formal training from NVQ Level 2 through to Level 3, which the company considers essential for producing well-rounded engineers.
ICE said it was immensely proud of Luc and Sam, describing them as “outstanding ambassadors” for both the organisation and the wider industry.
