Noah Gaunt of Vaillant Group UK Ltd has been named ICOM’s Apprentice of the Year 2026, recognising his outstanding commitment, technical excellence and passion for advancing the future of low carbon heating.
The prestigious award was presented during ICOM’s Annual Lunch on Thursday 2 July 2026 at St Ermin’s Hotel, Westminster. Held in the hotel’s aptly named Crystal Ballroom, the glittering event began with pre-lunch drinks, giving ICOM members the opportunity to network and catch up on the latest industry developments before enjoying a delicious luncheon, being entertained by magician Pete Heat and celebrating the achievements of colleagues and future industry leaders.
Noah, who is undertaking the pioneering Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship with Vaillant Group UK Ltd and Derby College Group, impressed the independent judging panel with his exceptional technical ability, enthusiasm for learning and commitment to promoting careers within the heating industry. As one of the UK’s first cohort of Low Carbon Heating Technician apprentices, Noah has embraced every opportunity to develop his skills, working across a wide range of low carbon technologies while acting as an ambassador for apprenticeships and the industry’s transition to net zero.
Throughout his apprenticeship, Noah has demonstrated excellence both academically and practically. Alongside developing expertise in heat pumps, low carbon heating systems and emerging technologies, he has contributed to product development projects, supported training initiatives and represented apprentices at senior industry events. His willingness to go above and beyond, combined with his calm professionalism and eagerness to help others, set him apart as a worthy winner.
Speaking after receiving the award, Noah Gaunt said: “I’m incredibly honoured to receive ICOM’s Apprentice of the Year Award. Being part of one of the UK’s first Low Carbon Heating Technician apprenticeships has been an amazing experience, and I’ve been fortunate to learn from so many talented people at Vaillant, Derby College and with my placement installer. This award reflects the support they’ve given me throughout my journey. I’m excited to continue building my skills and play my part in helping the industry deliver the transition to low carbon heating.”
Adam Collishaw, UK Learning and Development Specialist at Vaillant, who nominated Noah, said: “Noah is an exceptional apprentice whose enthusiasm, professionalism and commitment to learning have stood out from day one. He embraces every opportunity to broaden his knowledge, supports his fellow apprentices and is a fantastic ambassador for both Vaillant and the wider industry. His technical ability is matched by his willingness to help others and promote the exciting opportunities available through apprenticeships. I couldn’t be more delighted to see him recognised with this award.”
Steve McConnell, Director of ICOM, added: “Our apprentices are a great indicator that the industry will continue to have a highly skilled workforce as we continue to develop the skilled workforce needed to support the UK’s low carbon transition. A lot of us started as apprentices, and in my opinion there’s no better way to learn.
“Congratulations to Noah on becoming ICOM’s Apprentice of the Year 2026. His enthusiasm, dedication and willingness to embrace new technologies are exactly the qualities we hope to encourage through these awards. We’d like to thank Richard Harper of IGEM for his help with the judging. We’d also like to congratulate all of this year’s nominees.”
The ICOM Apprentice of the Year Award celebrates apprentices and trainees who have demonstrated outstanding achievement, professional development and a commitment to embracing new technologies and innovative ways of working. Noah’s success highlights the importance of investing in the next generation of skilled heating professionals as the industry continues its journey towards a low carbon future.