It wasn’t that long ago that there was debated uncertainty surrounding the future of the North Sea and all the industries linked to its operation paid close attention.
Yet, recently, industry coverage and speculation surrounding the reserves and longevity of the North Sea, concerns over the much mentioned, but rarely addressed “skills gap”, have dwindled in prominence as a period of increased optimism and activity highlights the continued interest and investment in this still important energy province.
It is during this period of renewed confidence in the industry locally, that Scotland, and in particular, Aberdeen, should utilise its industry reputation and establish itself as the international energy hub for skills, standards and training.
There has long been global acknowledgement of the skills and experience developed by companies operating in the challenging North Sea environment and opportunity exists now, to ensure the continued success of our own industry players on the global energy stage.
By promoting our capabilities and determination to meet and overcome new challenges, Scotland can aim to create a prerequisite by the industry for our experience, expertise and innovative thinking.
Like the industry it serves, Scotland’s training portfolio is founded upon technological excellence, proven best practice and the highest operational and HSE standards.
Equally, it is derived from the specific challenges posed by exploration and production activity in the often hostile environment of the North Sea, challenges that have demanded robust, quality solutions.
Iesta is a non-profit alliance that brings together the very best of Scottish education and training providers to provide and promote us as a global hub of training excellence.
Collaborative working is not a new concept and iesta has long been invested in promoting the benefits of a collaborative approach to skills solutions, allowing companies to access experience and expertise in areas ranging from health & safety and engineering, to project management and IT.
The hope is that iesta’s new bi-monthly training column in Energy will help further promote the expertise and global capabilities of Scottish industry training while looking at highlighting current training issues and innovations.
Calling on the knowledge of our members and their experience at training both in the UK and abroad, the intention is that this column is both informative and relevant to anyone in the industry.
Best we work together to ensure Scotland takes advantage of opportunities for continued industry prominence and successes in the future.
Sarah Singer is business development manager at iesta – International Energy Skills & Training Alliance
Recommended for you
