Edinburgh College supports the launch of new OPITO energy transition qualifications
Edinburgh College is supporting OPITO, the global safety and skills body for the energy industry, with the launch of an innovative suite of strategic energy transition qualifications.
The new qualifications focus on developing the core skills that are urgently needed to move at pace towards a more integrated offshore energy system and workforce, turning the ambition of decarbonisation and the green economy into reality.
The announcement marks an important step towards creating an All Energy Apprenticeship, one of the goals of the ambitious North Sea Transition Deal’s Integrated People and Skills Strategy, which aims to support 40,000 jobs in the sector.
The four qualifications are introductory modules covering the four key areas of the energy sector and the major transition pathways:
- Introduction to Wind Power
- Introduction to Hydrogen
- Introduction to CCUS
- Introduction to Oil and Gas
The College will deliver teaching on these modules from its Midlothian Campus, providing OPITO apprentices with an introduction to the energy transition and key knowledge of emerging energy transition specialisms for technicians and others looking to upskill or move between relevant energy industries.
Scott Warden, Edinburgh College Assistant Principal (Construction and Engineering), said: “We are proud and excited to support the delivery of these new qualifications launched by OPITO. These will provide our apprentices, students and those already working in the sector with an industry-led award, enhancing their prospects in current and future industry.”
Stephen Marcos Jones, CEO of Association of Consultancy and Engineering and ESA lead of the All-Energy Apprenticeship Workgroup, said: “These new qualifications have been developed in response to the challenge of providing an adaptable, safe and skilled energy workforce. Modules complement existing technician apprenticeship frameworks and will provide the opportunity for individuals to transfer their skills, knowledge and competence into new and emerging energy sectors such as hydrogen and CCUS.
“The collaboration and committed support provided from our industry stakeholders, including operators, developers, trade associations and colleges, is critical if we are to succeed in meeting future skills demand.”
The new qualifications are being launched in two stages. They will initially be made available in the UK and Europe before being delivered across the rest of the world from early 2023.
Alex Spencer, Director of Operations at OPITO, said: “OPITO is proud to offer a unique set of recognised credit rated qualifications for the integrated energy workforce of the future.
“The suite of qualifications will help prepare existing apprentices and energy professionals for a career in a range of emerging energy sectors and to help develop the skills we need to deliver an all-energy workforce across the UK and beyond.”
