Subsea UK has launched a new initiative aimed at closing the skills gap in the UK industry.
Subsea Target, which has been supported by the Skills Development Scotland Energy Skills Challenge Fund, will offer support for training and development initiatives, along with giving companies access to new training programmes and apprenticeship schemes.
Westhill-based remote underwater vehicle firm Rovop has launched its own academy under the new scheme, with the backing of a Scottish Enterprise grant.
The company has already recruited around 50 people over the last 18 months and now aims to recruit another 200 people over the next few years, which will be underpinned by its academy.
“Attracting and developing the necessary talent to ensure that British subsea companies continue to lead the way around the world is becoming increasingly difficult,” said Subsea chief executive Neil Gordon.
“Subsea Target provides the framework, guidance and tools for companies to source and develop the talent they need and for those seeking jobs in the sector to embark on the correct entry route and improve their chances of getting a job. The overall aim is to close the skills gap and ensure that our sector remains competitive and has the right resources to exploit the significant growth potential.
“For example, to develop a fully qualified subsea engineer through a graduate scheme can take up to three years. The subsea engineer conversion course is designed to take an existing engineer from another discipline to a fully competent subsea engineer in well under a year.”
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