Organised by the Building Engineering Services Association with sponsorship from REFCOM, Baxi, and support from the BDR Thermea Foundation, the event tested six finalists in practical, real-world scenarios. Competitors carried out pipework installation, electrical testing, pressure checks, refrigerant handling, and system commissioning, while also demonstrating environmentally responsible recovery practices.

At just 18 years old, Jervis was the youngest competitor and achieved scores above 90% across all elements. Samuel Jones of the Practical Refrigeration Training Centre and Industrial Cooling Equipment secured silver, while Craig Gow of Glasgow Kelvin College and Cool Cair Refrigeration took bronze. Evan Jones of City of Portsmouth College and Lightfoot International was highly commended, with Taylor Mclaughin of Cubic Works and Daniel Hunt of the Royal Engineers also praised by judges.

Judges noted the consistently high standards across the field, describing all six as “incredible engineers.” BESA technical director Kevin Morrissey said the competition highlighted the strength of emerging talent in the sector, adding that performing under live conditions and expert scrutiny was a valuable experience for all involved.

WorldSkills UK chief executive Ben Blackledge congratulated the finalists, emphasising the role of competitions in developing technical skills that support investment, job creation, and economic growth. He said the achievements of the RACHP competitors demonstrated the UK’s ability to nurture a new generation of engineers who will provide employers with a competitive edge.

Finalists under 21 who scored above average will now be considered for the UK’s international squad preparing for the 2028 Skills Olympics in Aichi, Japan.

WorldSkills, which involves more than 80 countries, has been running for over 60 years as a partnership between education, business, and government to support skills development and employment opportunities.

Further details are available on the BESA WorldSkills Competition page. Pre-registration for the 2026 programme is already open, with learners encouraged to complete the entry test at work or college.