Scottish Government supports diver and ROV skills training to address future skills shortage

20.06.2017
Skills Development Scotland has awarded The Underwater Centre in Fort William funding to help ensure that Scotland is ready to supply the qualified workforce that the subsea industry will need in the future.

There is growing concern that the subsea industry could face major skills shortages in coming years. The downturn in the oil and gas industry has led to a reduction in training, both by individuals and companies. Without ongoing investment in training, skills will be lost to the industry as older workers retire without the skilled workforce to replace them.

The Scottish Government is taking action to support subsea training now so that the country’s workforce is ready to respond to positive market conditions when the oil price begins to recover, as well as being prepared for opportunities in decommissioning and the offshore renewables sector.

Starting in June 2017, Scottish residents* will be able to get high-quality, industry-relevant closed bell and ROV training at The Underwater Centre for 50% of the usual cost. The other half of the fees will be paid by Skills Development Scotland.

With industry needs in mind, the financial support is targeted towards the specific areas where there are likely to be shortages. The support is not seeking to bring new people into the offshore industry but is aiming to increase the capability of the people already in the sector.

Starting in June 2017, Scottish residents* will be able to get high-quality, industry-relevant closed bell and ROV training at The Underwater Centre for 50% of the usual cost. The other half of the fees will be paid by Skills Development Scotland.

With industry needs in mind, the financial support is targeted towards the specific areas where there are likely to be shortages. The support is not seeking to bring new people into the offshore industry but is aiming to increase the capability of the people already in the sector.

Steve Ham, Commercial Director at The Underwater Centre, believes that the support offers huge benefits to the Scottish subsea workforce: “While none of us have a crystal ball, there are increasing signs that the upturn is coming. We believe that this Scottish Government support for subsea skills training will help companies benefit more quickly and more effectively from that upturn. It will also help individuals advance their own careers by making it easier to invest in themselves.”

*A resident is someone who has been resident in Scotland for at least the last 12 months.

Location: Scotland









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