Events are to be held next week in an effort to encourage more young women into the oil and gas industry.
Organised by skills body for the energy sector Opito, two “girls’ nights” on January 24 and 25 at North East Scotland College (NESCol) will attempt to show that the energy sector need not be a male dominated environment.
Young women will hear from those working in the industry as well as current trainees and mentors from the Oil and Gas Technical Apprentice Programme (OGTAP), a 3-year 9 month fast-track course which has brought 1,500 trainees into the industry.
The events have garnered the backing of 17 oil and gas operators including BP, Shell, Petrofac, Nexen Petroleum UK and Aker Solutions.
Opito’s chief executive officer, John McDonald, said: “The energy sector is incredibly broad in terms of career options.
“However, the technical job roles like technicians and engineers still suffer from the stigma of being seen as traditionally male roles.
“Our goal with the Girls in OGTAP evenings is to ensure that young women can hear from the experts first hand, speak to apprentices already on the scheme and see the surroundings at NESCol.
“What better way to allay any concerns they and their parents or guardians may have and gain a better understanding of what being an apprentice involves for women in the energy sector.”