Runcorn, UK. December 15th 2025 – Two young engineers from Industrial Cooling Equipment Ltd (ICE), a Runcorn-based refrigeration company, have been recognised as some of the most promising talent in the UK after winning major honours at the ACR & Heat Pump Trainee of the Year Awards 2025.
The awards, held at the Leeds Marriott Hotel, brought together leading businesses from across the refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump sectors to celebrate excellence and support the next generation of engineers.
Luc Dwyer and Samuel Jones, both apprentices at ICE, took home national awards in their respective categories, marking a proud moment for the company and its apprenticeship programme.
Luc, who was named Air Conditioning Trainee of the Year, has undergone a remarkable progression since joining the business. After beginning his apprenticeship in the service department, he moved into installations, where his confidence and technical ability grew rapidly. His development has enabled him to take on increasingly complex projects, including specialist installations such as 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 describe Luc as hard-working, professional and committed, with the award reflecting the high standard of his work and strong relationships with clients.
Samuel Jones, crowned Refrigeration Trainee of the Year, received his award just days after winning silver at the WorldSkills UK National Finals. In only three years at ICE, Sam has progressed to become one of the company’s trusted installation engineers, working on complex refrigeration, air conditioning and ventilation projects.
Sam is known for his passion for the trade, often studying independently and investing in his tools to improve his skills continually. His calm, mature approach on site, combined with his strong technical ability, has earned praise from customers and colleagues alike.
“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 believes the success of its apprentices is a reflection of the company’s long-term commitment to developing multi-skilled engineers. With the UK facing a significant shortage of technical talent in refrigeration and cooling, the company made a strategic decision five years ago to invest heavily in training its own workforce.
Today, more than half of ICE’s engineering team began their careers as apprentices with the business. Many have progressed into senior roles and now mentor newer apprentices, a cycle of learning that continues to strengthen the company’s expertise.
Apprentices at ICE work across both installations and service, gaining a full understanding of the business before choosing their specialism. Alongside practical experience, they complete college training from NVQ Level 2 to Level 3, a standard the company believes is essential for developing well-rounded engineers.
ICE said it was extremely proud of Luc and Sam’s achievements, describing them as “outstanding ambassadors” for both the company and the industry.
For more about ICE ltd: https://ice-ltd.co.uk/
ENDS