The Copper Connection Podcast – Season 2, Episode 35.

Ever wondered what happens to a building after you’ve finished the job and packed up your tools? In this episode of The Copper Connection Podcast, host Chris Bailey pulls back the curtain on the data sources that drive modern construction and building services – and why they matter for students, apprentices and future tradespeople.

You’ll discover how operational cost monitoring shows what it really costs to run a building, why enterprise systems and ERP software influence the materials you get on site, and how utilities, metering and building management systems (BMS/BEM) turn everyday plant and pipework into smart, efficient, data-driven systems. We also zoom out to look at UK infrastructure and transport data, and how it shapes the projects – and job opportunities – coming down the line.

If you’re working towards a plumbing qualification, construction apprenticeship or technical trade career, this episode will help you connect what you learn in class with the real-world decisions made on site and in the office.

Listen now to build your understanding, boost your confidence, and get a head start in a data-driven industry – and don’t forget to follow and subscribe to The Copper Connection Podcast for more trade-focused learning and career tips.plumbing apprenticeship UK

• plumbing student revision
• building services engineering data
• construction data sources
• operational cost monitoring in buildings
• enterprise resource planning in construction
• building management system BMS explained
• building energy management system BEM
• metering and submetering in non-domestic buildings
• UK construction qualifications
• technical education for trades
• study tips for plumbing apprentices
• careers in building services engineering
• infrastructure projects UK jobs
• smart buildings and energy efficiency
• facilities management for apprentices
• BIM and building performance data
• utilities and building services coordination
• cost of running commercial buildings

#TheCopperConnection

#PlumbingApprentice

#ConstructionCareers

#BuildingServicesEngineering

#SmartBuildings

#BMS

#PlumbingStudent

#TradeApprenticeship

#UKApprenticeships

#TechnicalEducation

#ConstructionSkills

#StudyTips

#BuildingPerformance

#EnergyEfficiency

#InfrastructureUK

#FutureOfTheTrades

#HVACandPlumbing

#FacilitiesManagement

#BIM

#SustainableConstruction

#ApprenticeLife

#OnTheTools

#ConstructionTraining

#DataDrivenBuildings

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The Copper Connection Podcast – Season 2, Episode 34.

Confused about onsite vs offsite construction methods? In this episode of The Copper Connection Podcast, host Chris Bailey breaks down everything trade students and apprentices need to know about traditional and modern construction techniques.

You'll learn:

✅ The difference between first fix and second fix (and why it matters for plumbers, electricians, and all trades)

✅ Traditional construction methods still used today: timber frame, steel frame, brick and block

✅ Modern construction technology: modular building, prefabrication, 3D printing, drones, and robotics

✅ Why offsite construction is faster, more sustainable, and what it means for your career

✅ Container construction, precast structures, and preconstructed panels explained simply

✅ Building maintenance and refurbishment opportunities for tradespeople

Whether you're studying plumbing, electrical, carpentry, or any construction trade in the UK, understanding these construction methods will give you a competitive edge in your apprenticeship and career. Chris uses real-world examples and relatable stories to make complex building technology principles easy to understand.

Perfect for: Plumbing students, electrical apprentices, construction learners, Level 2 & 3 trade qualifications, City & Guilds students, and anyone pursuing a career in the building services industry.

🎧 Follow The Copper Connection Podcast for weekly episodes packed with practical advice, study tips, and industry insights that will help you succeed in your trade career!

Plumbing apprenticeship

Construction methods for students

Trade apprentice training

Onsite construction explained

Offsite construction methods

Modular construction UK

First fix second fix plumbing

Building technology for apprentices

#PlumbingApprentice

#TradeStudent

#ConstructionApprentice

#PlumbingTraining

#TradeSkills

#ApprenticeLife

#SkilledTrades

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Struggling to understand instantaneous hot water systems for your plumbing exams? In this episode of The Copper Connection Podcast, host Chris Bailey breaks down everything Level 2 plumbing students and apprentices need to know about modern hot water heating systems—from localised single-point heaters to combination boilers, thermal stores, and multi-point instantaneous units.

You'll learn how each system works, when to use them on site, and the key technical details that show up in exams and practical assessments. Chris explains complex concepts like Bernoulli's principle, venturi tubes, and diverter valves in simple, relatable language—using real-world examples from actual job sites.

Whether you're revising for your Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing Studies, preparing for an apprenticeship interview, or just want to sound confident when talking to customers, this episode gives you the knowledge and clarity you need.

Perfect for: plumbing students, construction apprentices, trainee heating engineers, and anyone pursuing technical qualifications in the trades.

Subscribe to The Copper Connection Podcast for weekly episodes packed with practical plumbing knowledge, study tips, and career advice for the next generation of tradespeople. Hit follow now and never miss an episode!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.