A new scheme aimed at closing the energy industry skills gap through hiring former services personnel has launched.
Oil and gas skills development body Opito has launched a new scheme aimed at helping smooth the path for former forces members looking to make a move into the energy sector.
The initiative will kick off with a visit to Rosyth later this month, before moving to bases in England over the next four months to meet more than 300 current armed forces personnel.
“Skill shortages have been identified as one of the biggest challenges facing the industry and ex-military personnel are in high demand because they are well-trained, safety conscious, and very dependable,” said Opito skills director Morven Spalding.
“By visiting the bases, we are directly informing potential personnel of the opportunities in this dynamic sector. Opito is working hard to help oil and gas firms recognise the benefits of hiring and cross-training ex-military servicemen and women who have a broad range of skills and international experiences.”
A move into the oil and gas industry is seen as one of the key directions by military leavers, according to the Ministry of Defence, with a pilot programme launched last year having helped provide transition training for those ready to move into the energy sector.
“The pilot programmes worked well and provided a solid test platform from which we have been able to refine and refocus in order to best meet the needs of the industry,” said Mrs Spalding.
“Designed with those industry needs in mind, the new TTP will also offer support to those looking to move into the industry but don’t know how or what’s required.”
The new scheme will see training delivered on the bases for military personnel, to ensure they are aware of the skillsets required for different aspects of the oil and gas industry. Candidates will be able to have their own skill levels assessed and matched up.
A new screening tool from the Oil and Gas Academy for Scotland will also identify skillset gaps for training to be provided early on in their new roles.
“As a sector that is now estimated to support 450,000 jobs across the UK, it is vital that the skills issue within the industry does not impact future growth,” said Mrs Spalding.
“A great deal of action is being taken to get more industry employers onboard to offer training and employment opportunities for ex-military workers for all discipline areas in their business and Opito are working proactively to support them in this process.”
