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Life at the top excites energy industry students

Students with their hearts set on a career in the energy industry had a taste of the real world with a day aboard the massive Seajacks’ Kraken jack-up vessel moored at Great Yarmouth’s outer harbour.

It was the last major mission for the 11 young people on the pioneering Energy Skills Foundation Programme launched at Lowestoft College last September.

Other hands-on visits to support their college studies have included the Bacton gas terminal and Sizewell B nuclear power station as they gain knowledge and experience to equip them to make their final career choices.

Celia Anderson, executive director – skills for TMS client EEEGR (the East of England Energy Group), said the success of the course stemmed from the collaboration of the partners, which included the ECITB and Cogent.

“But most significantly it has been demanded, designed and led by industry in the region. The students will be welcome additions to the industry and we are proud of what they have achieved.”

Ian Pease, Head of Maritime, Offshore and Energy at Lowestoft College, was optimistic that the success of the pilot course meant funding would be secured for another one starting in September.

“We believe the programme gives these young people a broad overview of the energy industry, helps them decide in which area they would like to work and begins to give them the transferable skills needed across the sector.”

Ian Robertson, HR and crewing manager for Great Yarmouth-based Seajacks, said that the students were starting at the right time and place with tremendous growth expected in the energy industry.

But their strength would be in becoming flexible and versatile across what was essentially a heavy engineering trade.

One of the students, Adam Crinnion, said afterwards: “It has been great to see people working in the real world of energy.”

For more information contact Celia Anderson on 01493 446535