Balmoral Offshore Engineering (BOE) opened its own training “academy” yesterday, saying it was an essential asset because of an endemic skills shortage in the oil and gas industry.
The Aberdeen-based energy service company has already signed up six people, including existing employees and new recruits, for a six-month training programme.
It expects to put around 100 trainees through the centre annually, creating a regular supply of “production process leaders”.
On successful completion of classwork and hands-on experience, trainees will gain a level two Scottish Vocational Qualification in performing manufacturing operations.
Jim Milne, chairman of BOE parent Balmoral Group, said: “The development and retention of a skilled workforce is our responsibility.
“No one else can provide the sort of training or knowledge that our company requires.”
He added: “It’s very difficult to get these skills elsewhere.
BOE, which employs about 300 people and specialises in deepwater buoyancy, insulation and elastomer products, has invested a six-figure sum in the purpose-built facility.
A spokesman for the company was unable to give a more precise figure.
BOE has appointed a qualified trainer and registered assessor and is in the process of gaining Scottish Qualifications Authority accreditation as an approved training centre.
The courses were put together by Balmoral operational excellence manager David Robertson, with help from Scottish Enterprise and Skills Development Scotland.
Mr Robertson said: “It is important that we have a long-term skills development plan in place for the sustainability of our business.
“The industry is booming and companies such as Balmoral must address their own requirements. We will provide candidates with structured training and an in-depth understanding of Balmoral-specific manufacturing operations leading to a nationally recognised certificate.
“Ultimately we will roll this out across all departments as skills and competency improvement is central to the company’s philosophy of career enhancement.”
The official opening was conducted by Aberdeen Lord Provost George Adam.