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Meet the Experts: Mark Griffin, Technical Training Manager
With a career spanning over 25 years in the plumbing and heating industry, Mark Griffin brings a wealth of experience to his role as Technical Training Manager with Ideal Heating’s Expert Academy.
From hands-on installation to lecturing in further education, Mark’s journey has been shaped by a passion for learning, problem-solving and helping others develop their skills.
Like many in the trade, Mark’s career started with an apprenticeship at 16, working on new-build housing and council renovation projects in Hull. Over the years, he gained experience across a variety of roles, from plumbing and heating installation to supervisory positions.
His career took an unexpected turn when he joined the British Army, where he served as an infantry soldier and was deployed to Afghanistan in 2011.
After leaving the Army, Mark returned to the heating industry, working with major companies before transitioning into education. He became a plumbing and gas lecturer at Hull College, earning his Certificate in Education, assessor qualifications, and Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) certification.
Teaching reignited his passion for the trade, particularly as the industry embraced renewable technologies.
Mark joined Ideal Heating in 2023 after being approached by a recruiter while working in further education. Now, as a Technical Training Manager with the Expert Academy, he delivers a variety of courses, including product training on Ideal Heating’s boilers and heat pumps, as well as specialist courses in F-Gas and low-temperature system design.
“My role is really varied,” Mark explains. “It can be anything from course preparation and hands-on training in the workshop to supporting larger projects. The best part is meeting new people and making learning an enjoyable experience.”
Mark understands that assessments can be daunting for engineers, but he focuses on putting people at ease. “Most people enjoy learning – they just dislike the exams that come with it! My job is to explain things in a way that makes sense to everyone, whatever their learning style.”
Having witnessed major shifts in the heating industry, Mark believes the transition to renewable technologies is one of the most exciting developments yet.
“Air source heat pumps are really ramping up and engineers are getting back to designing systems properly for efficiency. I think many installers are rediscovering the satisfaction of good system design and reclaiming the ‘engineer’ title.”
His advice to engineers considering upskilling? “Get yourself on a course! You’re never too old to learn something new. Don’t listen to the naysayers – heat pumps aren’t as complicated as people make out.”
When he’s not in the training room, Mark enjoys getting outdoors – whether it’s hiking, mountain biking, or, more recently, motorbiking. He also loves long countryside walks with his two spaniels.
With his combination of hands-on industry experience and a passion for education, Mark is helping to shape the next generation of heating engineers, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to thrive in a rapidly-evolving industry.
