The Electrical Show

Thomas Nagy and Paul Meenan zig zag through the different career paths available to electricians. They reflect on their own journeys, discuss the roles they’ve found most rewarding, and reveal the jobs they would — and wouldn’t — want to take on.

From solar PV and battery storage to EV charging, industrial maintenance, fire alarms, data centres and smart home technology, they explore the pros and cons of a range of specialisms.

Thomas Nagy and Paul Meenan take a look at the tools and equipment that genuinely earn their place in the van, the gadgets that turn out to be a waste of money, and whether expensive tools really make you a better electrician.

They discuss the pros and cons of buying duplicate tools, managing stock and supplies, keeping up with new innovations and avoiding equipment becoming obsolete.

Thomas Nagy and Paul Meenan explore whether electricians should have their own compulsory accreditation scheme, following SELECT’s campaign in Scotland to protect the title of electrician.

They’re joined by plumbing and heating industry expert Jimmy Hendry to discuss how Gas Safe works in practice, how engineers are vetted, the benefits and frustrations of the system, and what reforms might be needed.

Thomas and Paul debate what a register of competency could look like in the electrical sector, whether it would genuinely tackle poor workmanship, and what a good or bad version of the scheme might mean for contractors.

Thomas Nagy and Paul Meenan are joined by Neil Claxton, the Scottish electrician recently named Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2026, to find out what sets the very best tradespeople apart.

They discuss the skills, attitude, professionalism and work ethic that can take an electrician from simply getting by to becoming one of the best in the business. 

Thomas and Paul debate who else in the electrical and wider construction industry deserves recognition — and whether industry awards should be about technical ability alone, or also recognise customer service, helping others and running a great business.

Thomas Nagy and Paul Meenan are joined by Keith Sanderson, Head of Education and Skills at the ECA, to discuss the challenges facing apprentices, employers and colleges.

They look at the shortage of work placements, the quality of college training, rogue training providers and how competency standards could be improved.

They also look into whether the electrical industry needs a licensing system similar to the Gas Safe Register, how to encourage more mature students into the trade, and what needs to change to get more electrical contractors taking on apprentices.