Kevin Wellman
Chief Executive Officer, Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE)
Kevin served an indentured apprenticeship and joined the Institute of Plumbing in 1985. He later successfully completed a Diploma in Management. In 2011 he became Chief Executive Officer of the CIPHE and was also elected to the Executive Board of the World Plumbing Council. Kevin is also Deputy Chairman of the Worshipful Company of Plumbers Education Committee and a founder Director of WaterSafe.
Where small discoveries have a big impact
Every great engineer starts with curiosity - a desire to understand how things work and how to make them better. At the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE), we share that spirit of discovery. We are passionate about showing young people that plumbing and heating engineering isn’t only about pipes and boilers. It’s about sustainability, health, comfort, and the technologies that underpin modern living. As a professional body committed to education and excellence, CIPHE works to bridge the gap between learning and industry. We help future engineers see that their curiosity and creativity can change lives.
Engineering for a better world
When young people think of engineering, plumbing and heating might not always spring to mind - but they should. Our members work to ensure clean water, safe sanitation, efficient heating, and reduced carbon emissions. It’s engineering that touches everyone, every day.
From developing low-carbon heating systems to designing sustainable water systems, today’s plumbing and heating engineers are central to the UK’s journey to net zero. These professionals combine science, design, and hands-on skill to solve some of society’s most pressing environmental and public health challenges.
This is what we want young people to see: that engineering is essential to a sustainable future. It’s where practical skill meets innovation and where small discoveries can have a big impact.
Learning through trial and error
The Dare to discover theme of this year’s Tomorrow’s Engineers Week perfectly reflects the reality of plumbing and heating engineering. Systems don’t always work the first time. Materials behave in unexpected ways. Technologies evolve rapidly. Every day engineers troubleshoot, test, and refine their work, learning through experience.
That’s why the CIPHE encourages a mindset of continuous improvement and professional development. We want students to understand that making mistakes and learning from them is not just acceptable - it’s vital. It’s how good engineers become great ones.
Through our partnerships with colleges, training providers, and industry, we support a learning journey that blends classroom knowledge with practical application. We know that real understanding comes when theory meets hands-on experience.
The CIPHE are directly supporting the next generation by developing new apprenticeships. These apprenticeships will create engineers who can design, install and commission all aspects of plumbing and heating systems, both domestically and commercially. The skills and knowledge to do this are brought to life through our innovative 3D modelling of these systems. This will give everyone the ability to learn through a shared vision.
The CIPHE also writes a wide range of technical articles and training courses for all levels of learning. These new courses are at the cutting edge of the latest industry challenges and changes.
A key element of our support comes through face-to-face visits to training providers, which we invite employers and manufacturers to participate in. This enhances understanding and gives learners the opportunity to gain insight from the very best in the industry.
Opening doors to rewarding careers
There are so many pathways into plumbing and heating engineering. From apprenticeships and T Levels to degree-level qualifications, the routes are as diverse as the people who take them.
For many students, especially those with a passion for problem solving and practical work, this career offers both variety and purpose. Whether installing renewable heating systems, designing water-efficient buildings, or maintaining vital infrastructure, engineers in our sector are making a tangible difference.
At CIPHE, we’re proud to support the development of these professionals, from apprentices just starting out to Chartered Engineers leading on innovation. Our role is to champion education, raise professional standards, and ensure the next generation has the skills and confidence to succeed.
Help us inspire the future
Tomorrow’s Engineers Week is an ideal opportunity for teachers and careers leaders to show students what’s possible when they dare to discover. We encourage educators to introduce plumbing and heating engineering as an exciting, sustainable, and people-focused career path. Invite guest speakers, explore STEM links to water and energy, and challenge students to think about the systems that make modern life possible.
By working together, we can help young people see that engineering isn’t just about theory. It’s about impact, innovation, and building a better, safer, and greener world.
Plumbing and heating engineering isn’t only about pipes and boilers. It’s about sustainability, health, comfort, and the technologies that underpin modern living
— Kevin Wellman, Chief Executive Officer, Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE)
