It has been specifically designed to encourage the next generation of students at the cutting edge of technology.
And yesterday, North East Scotland College cut the ribbon on its new science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) base.
The ceremony featured the school’s principal, Liz McIntyre, and Sir Ian Wood – founder of global company Wood Group.
The launch of the STEM centre, at the college’s Fraserburgh campus, was the culmination of a five-year £8million project to create the quality of facilities at Nescol to encourage youngsters into pursuing careers in the oil and gas industry.
It will also train a new generation of scientists and is offering an applied science course for the first time since 1982.
Michela Wilson, 17, was one of the new science students, who was impressed by the pristine equipment.
Miss Wilson said: “I want to do forensic investigating. I’ll finish this year, then do one more year of science at the college.
The end result will potentially be getting a job with the police.
“The new building is really good and has everything we need.”
Mrs McIntyre added the expansion marked the fulfilment of turning the Fraserburgh campus into a building fit for future generations.
She said: “This project was envisioned and overseen by my predecessor, Rob Wallen.
“To complete a project on time and on budget requires a great deal of patience and enthusiasm, and thanks are of course due to everyone involved with it.
“North East Scotland College is a huge resource for this region. The college has a vision to be a college that transforms lives – and we believe that these facilities will do this and more.
“The skills developed here are essential to all of us in our daily lives.”
Sir Ian Wood offered his view that the facility could stimulate an “economic renaissance”.
He added: “I still think today’s generation has significant career potential in oil and gas.
“It is a very exciting international opportunity and the kind of skills we are producing are in high demand.
“The college is going very strongly and is in very good hands. It is an exciting time and, in achieving the renaissance vision, our region will require high quality technology and STEM skills in abundance across all our industries.”
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