Injured Soldier Gets New Career Thanks To Plumbing Courses
People keen on taking plumbing courses can take inspiration from the story of injured soldier Paul Bennett.
Paul overcame serious injuries suffered in combat and returned home to Britain to embark on a successful career as a plumber after completing the appropriate plumbing courses, reported the Heating and Ventilating Review.
Paul Bennett was on his third tour in Iraq serving with the British Army in 2006, when he was injured in conflict and subsequently evacuated to the Defence Medical Rehabilitation unit in Surrey.
The soldier had to endure several medical procedures and extensive treatment but eventually had to be medically discharged from the army due to his injuries.
Bennett had served 21 years with the army but lost his ability to carry on serving until the age of 55 due to the injuries he sustained in Iraq.
Faced with finding a new career, he decided to start learning about the heating industry and decided to investigate the possibility of enrolling on plumbing courses.
Bennett embarked on plumbing courses in order to improve his knowledge in areas such as water regulations and even took Part P courses to boost his familiarity with household electrics.
The soldier decided to start his own company after completing plumbing courses to gain more control on when he could work and what he could do, due to his injury and ongoing medical treatment.
Bennett has since been recognised for his bravery and plumbing skills and has been nominated for a "Plumber/Heating engineer" award.
Training manager Steve Edis told the publication: "Paul, should not only be applauded for his previous career in the army, but also recognition should be given to the fact that he has had to endure a major career change, plus coping with his injury."
Returning servicemen who may be concerned about finding work in a competitive job market can take heart from the story of Paul Bennett as there is always a demand for qualified plumbers.
Servicemen must be aware that there is no quick or easy entry into the heating industry as approved and accredited NVQ plumbing courses at the required level must be undertaken.
A good place for potential plumbers to start is the City & Guilds NVQ 6129 level 2 plumbing courses because it will provide the ability to advance onto the NVQ level 3.
Numerous further education colleges are axing the plumbing courses they used to offer because of budget cuts so the best option would be to choose a private training provider.
Learners are advised to research training centres before enrolling on a course in order to find the most suitable.