The Pathway Back: Helping Subsea Professionals Return to Work
March 8, 2024, by Olivia Smith
A collaborative effort between three UK partners aims to assist subsea professionals in re-entering the industry after a career hiatus or transitioning from another field.
The Seaeye Falcon underwater robotic system. Photo courtesy of Saab Seaeye and Nekton
The Global Underwater Hub, the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB), and STEM Returners have joined forces to launch a sector-wide program that aims to promote diversity and inclusivity within the underwater industry.
Through the STEM Returners program, individuals who have taken a career break or are looking to transition their skills can access opportunities across various organizations within the Global Underwater Hub network.
With ECITB’s financial support, selected employers will offer paid 12-week placements to candidates, potentially leading to permanent positions. STEM Returners will provide additional assistance such as career coaching and mentoring.
The initiative’s primary goals are to provide hands-on experience and guidance during placements, aid individuals in readjusting to the workforce, and address the industry’s skills gap and the need for skill diversification in the evolving ocean economy.
“Our focus on STEM engagement involves promoting engineering construction careers to underrepresented groups, and we are thrilled to contribute to this collaborative program aimed at reintegrating professionals into the workforce,” expressed ECITB Chief Executive Andrew Hockey.
“Given the competitive skills landscape, this program offers employers in the underwater sector the opportunity to attract experienced candidates from a new talent pool, enhancing diversity and inclusion. These 12-week placements offer a valuable pathway for talented individuals looking to restart their careers or transition into a new industry,” added Hockey.
STEM Returners, a specialist in return-to-work programs, will recruit for positions like subsea controls engineer and electrical engineer, with placements available throughout the UK and offshore. Companies such as Subsea7, J+S Subsea, PD&MS, and Verlume have already pledged their support.
Neil Gordon, Chief Executive of Global Underwater Hub, emphasized the necessity of having skilled individuals in place to support the UK’s extensive underwater industry supply chain and drive the energy transition effectively.
“There is a common misconception that skills deteriorate during a career break, but this is simply not the case,” clarified Natalie Desty, Founder of STEM Returners. “Through collaborative efforts, we can revolutionize recruitment practices to assist individuals who face challenges in re-entering the sector and bridge the skills gap in the blue economy.”
### Exploring Offshore Wind Facilities: A Comprehensive Overview
Offshore wind energy is a rapidly growing industry, with various facilities playing a crucial role in its development. Let’s delve into some key facilities that are shaping the future of offshore wind energy.
#### Port of Nigg Facility Overview
One of the essential facilities in the offshore wind sector is the Port of Nigg. This facility serves as a hub for transportation and logistics, enabling the efficient movement of wind turbine components and other materials. With state-of-the-art infrastructure and strategic location, the Port of Nigg is pivotal in facilitating the installation and maintenance of offshore wind farms.
#### Mariner Platform: Driving Offshore Wind Innovation
Equinor’s Mariner platform is another prominent facility that showcases innovation in the offshore wind industry. By harnessing cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices, the Mariner platform plays a significant role in increasing energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact. This facility sets a benchmark for future offshore wind projects worldwide.
#### Large-Scale Offshore Wind Farms: A Game-Changer in Renewable Energy
Large-scale offshore wind farms, such as the one depicted in the image, demonstrate the immense potential of wind energy in meeting global electricity demands. These projects not only contribute to reducing carbon emissions but also create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in surrounding regions. The development of large-scale offshore wind farms marks a significant milestone in the transition towards a sustainable energy future.
#### Continuous Growth and Innovation in Offshore Wind Sector
As we look towards the future, it is evident that the offshore wind sector will continue to expand and evolve. With advancements in technology and increased investment in renewable energy, we can expect to see more innovative facilities and projects driving the growth of offshore wind energy. The industry’s commitment to sustainability and efficiency will pave the way for a cleaner and greener energy landscape.
### Conclusion
In conclusion, offshore wind facilities play a vital role in the development of renewable energy sources. By embracing innovation and sustainability, these facilities shape the future of offshore wind energy and contribute to the global transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy system. As the industry continues to grow, we can expect more groundbreaking projects and facilities to lead the way towards a greener future.
New Trends in Offshore Energy Sector
Published: 3 months ago
As the offshore energy sector continues to evolve, it is crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the industry. From advancements in subsea cables to the growing African hydrogen market, there are exciting opportunities on the horizon.
Advancements in Subsea Cables
Reliability of subsea cables is paramount to the success of the energy transition. With new technologies and designs, subsea cables are becoming more efficient and durable, ensuring a smooth transition to greener energy sources.
Growth of the African Hydrogen Market
The African hydrogen market is poised to boost GDP by $120 billion and create up to 3.7 million jobs by 2050. This presents a lucrative opportunity for investment and collaboration in the region, driving economic growth and sustainability.
Stay informed about these emerging trends and seize the opportunities they present in the offshore energy sector. Whether you are a seasoned professional or looking to re-enter the industry after a break, there are exciting prospects on the horizon.