Students from across Norfolk and Suffolk will be given the opportunity to speak directly with employers and education and training providers regarding their future career options, apprenticeships and training courses at an event focussed on bridging the skills gap within the expanding and exciting energy industry later this month.
Taking place on Wednesday 27th November in the new £11.4m Energy Skills Centre at East Coast College, Skills for Energy 2019 aims to inspire ambition and aspiration in the next generation of energy professionals with interactive STEM-based activities including virtual reality experiences, robot and ROV control, nautical chart treasure hunt, engine building and weld testing.
Gemma Head, Skills for Energy Programme Manager at EEEGR, said: “This event is now in its fourth year and each year, it has gained greater interest from industry exhibitors and students alike. We are really pleased to be able to host this event again within the region, highlighting the scale of the opportunities which lay ahead for the next generation of energy industry employees”
Sponsored by OPITO, the global skills organisation for the energy industry, and supported by the ECITB, the Skills for Energy event is just one of the elements of the East of England Energy Group’s (EEEGR) Skills for Energy Programme which aims to ensure the ongoing diversity and volume of skilled individuals for the current and future wellbeing of the energy sector. Working closely with industry as well as education and training providers, Skills for Energy helps individuals and companies benefit from the many opportunities the unique and varied energy sector in the East of England offers.
Jill Glennie, External Affairs Director at OPITO said: “The energy industry continues to develop and progress at pace using new technology and innovation to enhance delivery; introducing new roles and ways of working. The industry requires a multi-skilled, technology-enabled workforce to continue to drive the digital agenda.
“OPITO is proud to sponsor and support EEEGR and the Skills for Energy programme. The annual event provides a fantastic schedule of activities, bringing the energy sector to life for attendees who will gain a clearer picture of the opportunities our sector holds for them.”
With over 450 secondary school and higher education students set to attend and more than 30 companies exhibiting including ScottishPower Renewables, EDF Energy, 3sun Group, James Fisher Marine Services, UEA, OPITO, Gardline, Orsted, ECITB and Vattenfall, Skills for Energy 2019 looks set to be an unmissable event for students looking to pursue a career in the region’s growing energy industry.