The scheme also prepares them for a career in gas services provision in Hong Kong.

Twenty trainees have successfully completed the two-year apprenticeship this year.

Besides providing technical knowledge about gas services, the programme also offers other training.

'Trainees are taught English and Putonghua. Other communication skills such as how to deal with clients and outward bound courses are also included,' explained Leung Ping-him, technical training manager of Towngas.

At a ceremony held earlier this month at Towngas headquarters in North Point to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the scheme, the three outstanding trainees were presented with prizes.

William Lai Wai-hung was one of the three trainees honoured.

He credited his supervisors for helping him get acquainted with both the theoretical and practical knowledge in gas services.

'During the apprenticeship, we were assigned to different departments within Towngas, including the customer maintenance and emergency operation departments.

'Under the guidance of supervisors, I visited households in need of our services. I observed how my supervisors did their work,' said Mr Lai, who has been employed by Towngas as a technician since he completed the programme.

'We checked whether there were structural problems with their stoves.

'Sometimes there could be hidden problems. For example, if users fail to properly clean their stoves, dirt and grease could accumulate and clog up the stove. If left untended, such problems could have serious consequences.'

Mr Lai, who earns about HK$8,000 per month, said his job gives him great satisfaction.

'I conduct regular safety inspections in local households. Sometimes, I also teach clients basic maintenance. I find my job very satisfying,' said Mr Lai.