Behind the infrastructure: Skills that keep the UK running
Across the UK, a quiet force of skilled professionals works behind the scenes to keep our essential services running
12 September 2025
From the gas that heats our homes to the grit that keeps our roads safe in winter, these roles form the hidden backbone of the UK infrastructure. They also support broader national ambitions, including the transition to Net Zero, the expansion of housing, and the rollout of digital connectivity. Yet, despite their critical importance to everyday life, they often go unnoticed.
What unites this workforce is a foundation of technical expertise, built through high-quality training and a commitment to continuous development. It’s through this investment in skills that pathways are opened, infrastructure is strengthened, and communities are supported. At City & Guilds we’re proud to play a key role in enabling this progress, equipping learners with the knowledge and confidence to meet the demands of a changing world.
Why skills matter more than ever
As the UK’s infrastructure evolves, so does the demand for a workforce equipped with the right skills. From gas networks to streetworks, the pressure to meet rising safety standards, regulatory requirements, and technological advancements is intensifying. According to Skills England, persistent shortages are placing pressure on sectors like utilities, where rapid upskilling and compliance training are essential.
The Street Works UK report, The Road to Economic Growth, reinforces this message, highlighting the sector’s central role in enabling national ambitions such as Net Zero, housing expansion, and digital connectivity. The report calls for greater investment in qualifications and upskilling, emphasising the importance of standardised training pathways and flexible permitting systems. It also emphasises the growing need for operatives trained in compliance, safety, and technical delivery, skills that are essential for delivering safe, efficient, and future-ready street works.
The challenge is even more pronounced in the energy and utilities sector. The Energy & Utilities Workforce Demand Estimates 2024–2030 report projects that over 312,000 new workers will be needed by 2030. Within gas networks, demand is rising as the industry modernises infrastructure and advances decarbonisation. Training providers will play a pivotal role in preparing this workforce for the future.
City & Guilds: leading the way in utilities training
In a sector where safety, compliance, and technical precision are non-negotiable, the right training makes all the difference. With over 15 years of experience in the utilities sector, we offer a market-leading suite of CPD qualifications specifically designed for the utilities sector, ensuring learners gain the competency cards needed for critical roles like network gas, confined spaces, and winter service operations.
Our qualifications are developed in collaboration with industry experts and leading utilities training providers, ensuring they reflect the latest standards, technologies, and regulatory requirements.
Over the past 5 years, we’ve awarded over 80,000 certifications, supporting learners in building the skills needed to succeed in essential infrastructure roles. Every qualification delivered is a step toward a safer, smarter, and more resilient UK and a future connected through skills.
Support every step of the way
Delivering high-quality training in the utilities sector requires more than just strong qualifications, it demands reliable, responsive support. At City & Guilds we support you through a comprehensive service model designed to help you and your learners to succeed at every stage.
We offer:
- Dedicated account managers who work closely with you to understand your goals and tailor solutions to your learners’ needs.
- Technical advisors with deep sector expertise to ensure your training stays aligned with the latest industry standards and regulatory requirements.
- Responsive customer service that provides fast, practical support whenever you need it.
Every qualification delivered is a step toward a safer, smarter, and more resilient UK and a future connected through skills. Whether you're expanding your offer or navigating new compliance requirements, we’re here to help. With City & Guilds, you’re backed by expert support every step of the way.
Digital Credentials: skills that travel
In today’s competitive job market, visibility matters. That’s why City & Guilds offers Open Badge-compliant digital credentials that are verifiable, shareable, and designed to help learners stand out. These credentials can be showcased on LinkedIn, CVs, and professional platforms, giving learners a tangible edge and helping employers identify qualified talent with confidence.
Join us in connecting futures
The UK’s infrastructure depends on a skilled, qualified workforce and that workforce depends on training providers like you. Explore our full suite of utilities qualifications, connect with our team for tailored support, and help shape the future by training the next generation of professionals who keep the country running.
Together, we’re not just building skills, we’re connecting futures through skills.
Find out more about our qualifications for the utilities sector