Oil and Gas Transition Training Fund offers pathway to clean energy jobs
Funding for training to help oil and gas workers access jobs in Scotland’s growing clean energy sector is now available from Skills Development Scotland (SDS).
The Oil and Gas Transition Training Fund, backed by £900,000 of UK Government funding, will help increase the pipeline of skilled workers needed as part of the move towards sustainable energy.
Aimed at current or former oil and gas workers living or working in Aberdeen City or Aberdeenshire, the fund will help provide access to industry-recognised training required for a range of opportunities in sectors such as such as offshore wind, hydrogen and carbon capture and storage, covering roles such as welding, electrical engineering, and construction.
A dedicated website – transitiontrainingfund.scot – has been launched with details on eligibility and how to apply.
Frank Mitchell, Chair at Skills Development Scotland (SDS) said: “Scotland’s oil and gas workforce possesses a broad range of skills and experience which is vital to the continued growth of the renewable energy sector.
“The shift to sustainable energy generation and transmission represents a generational opportunity, and this funding will assist workers in making the most of their expertise in that growing sector.
“Our careers advisers are available for anyone who needs support in considering their options, or whether applying for the fund is right for them.”
It is anticipated that around 200 oil and gas workers will benefit from the pilot project, with those interested in applying able to receive one-to-one advice and support through SDS’s customer helpline.
The shift to sustainable energy generation and transmission represents a generational opportunity, and this funding will assist workers in making the most of their expertise in that growing sector.
Frank Mitchell
Chair, Skills Development Scotland
The Scottish Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy Gillian Martin said: “The North East has long been a titan in the oil and gas industry and the valuable expertise within our workforce must be at the heart of the transition to new fuels and sustainable energy.
“That’s why I’m pleased to launch a new Oil and Gas Transition Training Fund, in partnership with the UK Government and delivered by Skills Development Scotland, to help support offshore workers to take on roles in the sustainable energy sector.
“I am determined to ensure a positive impact and powerful legacy of Scotland’s clean energy revolution which benefits communities across the North East of the country.”
To be eligible, applicants must be resident or work for an employer with an office in the Aberdeen City or Aberdeenshire area, and have worked in the oil and gas sector within the last two years.
UK Government’s Minister for Energy Michael Shanks said: “Aberdeen is at the centre of our clean energy mission and this pilot shows our commitment supporting oil and gas workers to seize the thousands of job opportunities in our thriving Scottish clean energy industry, such as offshore wind and carbon capture.
“We will deliver a fair and prosperous transition in the North Sea, unlocking the full potential of clean energy and the significant benefits for our industrial heartlands.”
Find out more
Further information regarding eligibility and how to apply can be found at transitiontrainingfund.scot. Anyone looking for advice on their options can call the dedicated SDS customer helpline on 0808 100 1855.