Refrigeration is one of those industries that quietly keeps the world turning. It has a huge range of vital applications. My role sits within pharmaceutical manufacturing, where I work as a refrigeration engineer supporting industrial freeze dryers. These machines play a key role in the production of much needed medication, and it’s our job to ensure they operate reliably, efficiently, and safely.
I think my job entails many cool skills. One of the most important skills in this industry is the ability to stay calm and focused under pressure. We operate in a fast-paced environment, where equipment issues can quickly affect production timelines and patient supply. Having a patient-first mentality helps us prioritize what truly matters—delivering safe, effective outcomes for the end user.
Problem-solving is another critical skill. No two faults are ever quite the same, and being able to apply logical thinking to complex systems is key. Keeping a machine running within its validated parameters means being able to break down a problem methodically, paying close attention to detail.
Then there are the hands-on skills—practical abilities that take years to refine. Brazing, pipe fabrication (often in small, hard to work in places), pressure testing, and fault finding all come into play regularly. They may not be glamorous, but they are the backbone of the work we do. Precision and safety are non-negotiable when dealing with high-pressure systems and volatile gases, and getting it right is a skill in itself.
Lastly, communication and collaboration are often overlooked but imperative. We don’t work in isolation—we are part of a wider team that supports operators, production teams, and quality. Being able to explain technical faults in understandable terms or work closely with other departments is just as important as turning a spanner.
The refrigeration industry might not always get the spotlight, but the skills it demands are diverse, valuable, complex and constantly evolving. It’s not just about fixing things—it’s about thinking critically, working ethically, and supporting a much bigger picture.
