At ASH Integrated Services, we’re shaping futures and helping to build the future workforce
As an employer with deep roots in Greater Manchester and the North West, we understand the responsibility we carry when it comes to supporting the next generation.
The Skills Gap Is Real, And Growing
Our industry is facing a very real challenge: a growing skills gap.
Across the UK, there is a shortage of skilled professionals in the mechanical, electrical, and facilities management sectors.
Wigh the rise of sustainable building technologies, renewable energy, and smarter infrastructure, the demand for highly trained engineers, technicians, and tradespeople has never been greater.
Yet, too few young people are choosing careers in these areas.
Why?
Often, it’s simply down to a lack of awareness.
Many students leave school having never heard of mechanical and electrical services. Yet, there’s a huge variety of roles, qualifications, and career paths available within the built environment.
That’s where businesses like ours can make a real difference.
Influencing Aspirations in the Classroom
We’ve made it part of our CSR commitment to attend careers fairs, deliver talks, and engage directly with students in schools across the region, from Cansfield and Deanery to Broadbent Fold and Millbrook Primary.
Whether we’re talking to Year 9s deciding on GCSEs, or Year 5s learning how maths fits into the real world, we’re always impressed by how engaged and curious young people are when given the opportunity.
These sessions have become more than just a presentation.
They’re conversations that can shift mindsets.
We’ve had students tell us that speaking to our Director, Antony Grace, completely changed how they viewed their future.
Suddenly, careers in electrical, plumbing, heating, and renewables didn’t seem distant or out of reach — they felt relevant, exciting, and achievable.
It’s About Giving Back — But It’s Also About Securing the Future
It brings us genuine satisfaction to support schools and colleges.
So, by giving back we’re securing the future of our industry.
By taking the time to show students what a career in engineering or construction could look like, we’re contributing to a stronger, more resilient talent pipeline.
One that will help our business, and the wider sector, grow in the years to come.
We Encourage Other Employers to Do the Same
No one company can close the skills gap alone. But together, we can make a huge impact.
That’s why we actively encourage other employers, large and small to get involved in schools, colleges, and careers events.
Whether it’s through mock interviews, mentoring, site visits or classroom talks, every bit of time invested helps to demystify the world of work and build confidence among young people.
You don’t need a huge budget or formal programme, just a willingness to show up and share your story.
A Lasting Legacy
For us, the goal is simple: to help young people feel seen, supported, and excited about their futures.
If even one student walks away from a talk thinking, “I could do that” then it’s time well spent.
At ASH Integrated Services, we’ll continue doing our part.
We’ll keep showing up, sharing our expertise, and using our voice to support young people at every stage of their journey.
Because that’s what responsible employers do, we build to protect the future.
