Cook said the RACHP sector was experiencing “the fastest period of change in its history”, citing net zero, climate adaptation, digitalisation, new refrigerants and new technologies as key pressures. She emphasised that members consistently identify skills as their top concern.
“Education and Skills remain our number one strategic priority,” she said. “It’s not a slogan. It’s a responsibility.”

The new Alliance will sit alongside the IOR’s Education Outreach work, led by Matt Harvey, which aims to strengthen links between employers and training providers and support more coordinated activity across the sector.

Cook invited members to participate in shaping the Alliance, adding: “Skills don’t fix themselves. They improve when we come together, share insight, and take collective responsibility for shaping the future.”

Cook reported steady growth in engagement over the past year. According to figures shared during the event, the IOR has:

• Welcomed 86 new members
• Seen 148 new students and apprentices registered through colleges
• Delivered webinars and events watched by over 4,200 people
• Brought together more than 1,000 attendees across its London, Scotland and relaunched Newcastle dinners.

She also highlighted several new initiatives, including:

• Adaptation, an international research conference focused on refrigeration performance in rising ambient temperatures
• A new IOR app providing mobile access to technical guidance
• An upcoming 125th anniversary book, produced by volunteers and supported by sponsors.

“None of this happens by accident,” she said. “It happens because people step forward.”

Emerging talent

Five student and trainee award winners joined the top table as guests: Samuel Jones, Claudia McWhirter, Luc Dwyer, Martin Oates and Isaac Jervis. Cook described them as representing “the future of our industry in very real terms”.

Volunteers and governance

Cook thanked trustees, including newly appointed President Elect Steve Gill, as well as committee chairs, committee members, regional branches and the wider volunteer base. “You are the heart of the IOR,” she said. “When we work together, across roles, generations and disciplines, we don’t just respond to change. We lead it.”