Scottish firms and organisations will meet with other UK companies today as part of a new offshore wind industry task force with the aim of increasing talent within the sector.
The Investment in Talent Group, set up by the Offshore Wind Industry Council (OWIC), includes representatives from firms in the sector and from the UK, Scottish and Welsh governments.
UK renewable energy trade associations and academic institutions are also members.
Firms including Equinor, Orsted, Vattenfall, SSE and EDF Renewable are all represented.
Scotland is represented by Scottish Renewable’s chief executive Claire Mack and Debbie Ramsey of the Scottish Government.
UK trade body chief Hugh McNeal of RenewableUK will oversee the meeting.
He said: “The offshore wind industry is determined to recruit from the widest pool of talent, so that we fully reflect what makes the UK such an exciting, innovative and successful place to do business.
“The offshore wind industry is working closely with the government to build a modern workforce, creating new opportunities particularly in coastal communities which need them most.”
Part of the Offshore Wind Sector Deal launched in May, the group will be run by skills professional Celia Anderson, who has worked on the national oil and gas talent pipeline with government and industry.
Ms Anderson is an associate consultant with Nautilus Associates and also leads the offshore wind industry-funded STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) Coordination Hub in England.
She said: “We want the offshore wind industry to be the number one choice for apprentices, STEM graduates and workers from other industries looking for fresh opportunities.
“This sector is investing long-term in skills, and championing a diverse and inclusive workforce.
“From people who work wonders in designing, building or maintaining world-leading projects, to people using digital skills to tackle new technological challenges, be they enthusiasts or skilled engineers, there really are opportunities for everyone.”
