Shaping the Future of Cooling: Meet the 2025 WorldSkills UK RACHP Competitors
In a world increasingly driven by energy efficiency, environmental responsibility, and smart technologies, the RACHP (Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heat Pump) industry is more critical than ever. At the heart of this transformation are young engineers, problem solvers, innovators, and future leaders. Ready to take on global challenges one system at a time.
This year, the WorldSkills UK RACHP competition brings together a fresh wave of talent from across the UK. Organised by BESA and proudly sponsored by BAXI and REFCOM, the competition highlights the best and brightest early-career professionals in the field.
The competition is also supported by a group of industry partners—AE Refrigeration, ACRIB, Aspen Pumps, Beijer Ref, Bitzer, Climalife, Danfoss, ESTTL, InstallerSHOW, IOR, Lawton Tubes, Maple Mechanical, RACHP School and TESCO —who have generously donated kit, judging resources, technical expertise, and other vital contributions that make the event possible.
The national qualifiers will take place live at InstallerSHOW 2025, one of the industry’s leading trade events, giving competitors a unique platform to demonstrate their skills in front of both peers and potential employers.
Spotlight on Skill and Ambition
Brandan Rushton
Practical Refrigeration Training Centre / Building & Maintenance Services Ltd
Brandan brings a detective’s mindset to the industry, digging deep into system performance data using Daikin and Mitsubishi software. With a love for snowboarding and creative thinking, he’s as adventurous outside work as he is within it.Brandan approaches RACHP with a detective’s mindset, diving deep into system performance data using Daikin and Mitsubishi software. His love of snowboarding and creative problem-solving fuels his adventurous spirit both on and off the job. Brandan is passionate about exploring innovative solutions and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in refrigeration and air conditioning.
Samuel Jones
Practical Refrigeration Training Centre / Industrial Cooling Equipment
Initially drawn to RACHP by the promise of a hands-on career, Samuel realized after studying A-levels that a practical job suited him best. As he’s progressed through his apprenticeship, he’s been captivated by the industry’s breadth and the diverse skills it offers. Samuel is most looking forward to developing and learning new skills, as well as connecting with like-minded peers who share his enthusiasm for the trade. What he enjoys most is the satisfaction that comes from completing challenging, large-scale projects and seeing the results of hard work. Outside of work, Samuel stays active with hiking, rock climbing, and wild camping, and values quality time with friends and family.
Evan Jones
City of Portsmouth College / Lightfoot Defence Ltd
Inspired by a colleague, Luke Haile, who achieved silver in the WorldSkills finals, Evan is motivated to compete at the highest industry standards of safety and skill. He’s focused on ensuring installations are completed safely and effectively, with a keen eye for detail. Evan is also passionate about learning what the future holds for the refrigeration industry, staying ahead of innovations and new technologies.
George Agate
City of Portsmouth College / Norton Group
George is driven by a strong passion for learning and self-improvement. Whether it’s picking up new technical skills or working alongside more experienced engineers, he sees every challenge as a chance to grow. He particularly enjoys hands-on installation work, where his attention to detail and methodical approach shine. George also values the social side of the industry, building friendships and learning from those around him—making teamwork and communication key strengths in his development.
Louis James
Cardiff and Vale College / Snap Air Conditioning
Louis was drawn to RACHP by its rapid growth and the increasing demand for skilled engineers, especially with environmental regulations pushing the industry forward. He’s looking forward to networking with like-minded peers in the competition and expanding his professional connections. Fault finding is where he really thrives, he enjoys digging deep into how systems work to solve the more complex problems that arise. When he’s not working, Louis likes to unwind by playing 5-a-side football and gaming in his spare time.
Craig Gow
Glasgow Kelvin College / Cool air Refrigeration
Growing up around refrigeration thanks to his dad’s lifelong career in the industry, Craig’s interest was sparked early on. He’s excited to meet new people and sharpen his skills through the competition. What he enjoys most is going out on site to complete repairs and tackle the variety of challenges that arise day to day. Outside work, Craig stays active by playing football, working out, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Isaac Jervis
Royal Military School of Engineers / Royal Engineers
Isaac sees RACHP as a growing, essential industry that plays a vital role in daily life worldwide. He’s focused on gaining hands-on experience and expanding his skills with a variety of equipment. Being selected for this competition is a proud recognition of the hard work he’s put in and a gateway to new opportunities he hadn’t imagined before. Outside of work, Isaac enjoys running and spending time exploring with friends and family.
Anand Limbu
Royal Military School of Engineers / Royal Engineers
Anand is thriving in his Class 2 RACHP training, with strong support from his instructor helping him build confidence and skill. He’s focused on giving his best and applying everything he’s learned so far. Anand finds the most satisfaction in building coldstores, where precision meets purpose. Off the tools, you’ll find him on the football pitch, bringing the same energy and teamwork to the game as he does on the job.
Pukar Limbu Tumbahangphe
Royal Military School of Engineers / Royal Engineers
With a clear eye on the future, Pukar is motivated by the rising global demand for air conditioning and refrigeration. He’s committed to using his full skillset to earn a strong position in the competition and qualify for the next round. New to the field, Pukar finds joy in learning something new every day, each lesson fuelling his curiosity. Outside of RACHP, he enjoys football, volleyball, and travelling whenever he gets the chance.
Daniel Hunt
Royal Military School of Engineers / Royal Engineers
Daniel is focused on building a future in a trade he sees as essential for what lies ahead. For him, hands-on experience is key. He thrives on practical work and is always looking for new opportunities to grow in the field. His love of motorbikes and football reflects a mechanical mindset and team spirit that serves him well in RACHP.
Taylor McLaughlin
Cubic Works
For Taylor, it’s all about the energy of competition, going head-to-head with others who share the same passion drives him to push his limits. He’s motivated by the challenge of proving himself and rising to meet high standards. Pressure testing is where he shines, drawn in by the complexity and variability it offers. Outside of work, he’s a dedicated Manchester City supporter, travelling home and away with a season ticket always in hand.
Michael Brady
The City of Liverpool College / Climarite
Michael was fascinated by the RACHP industry from the start—drawn in by its global impact and essential role in modern life. He saw it as a strong trade that offered real challenge and long-term opportunity. Being put forward for the competition has been a rewarding milestone, validating the hard work he’s put in and opening doors he never expected. He enjoys every part of the experience, especially getting hands-on with new kit and continuing to build his skills. Passionate about going the extra mile for customers, Michael thrives on the satisfaction of a job well done. Outside of work, he spends time running, exploring with friends, and making memories with family.
Beyond the Toolbox
This year’s competition isn’t just about technique. It’s about adaptability, critical thinking, and a mindset that embraces sustainability and change. Each competitor is bringing something personal to the table:
- A desire to push technical boundaries
- A curiosity for smart diagnostics
- A commitment to high standards and safe practice
- And an excitement to learn from peers across the country
Together, they reflect the industry’s future: skilled, motivated, and globally relevant.
Why It Matters
Competitions like WorldSkills UK aren’t just a showcase — they’re a launchpad. They challenge young engineers to operate at industry standards under pressure, introduce them to future collaborators, and provide recognition for the skills that power homes, businesses, and global infrastructure.
We wish this year’s RACHP competitors the very best as they prepare for their qualifiers. We’ll be following every step of the way — and we hope you will too.