A unique programme called ‘Destination Renewables’, preparing students for the renewables’ jobs market, has scooped a national ‘Offshore Wind Energy Skills Award’ for the Gwynt Glas floating wind project team, the driving force behind this new initiative. At the inaugural Renewables UK Offshore Wind Awards on 25th October in London, Destination Renewables was praised by the RUK judges as the kind of initiative which helps to lay the foundations for the industry’s future workforce.
As part of their commitment to developing and recruiting local talent, EDF Renewables UK and DP Energy, the winning partnership behind the Gwynt Glas project in the Celtic Sea, joined forces with Pembrokeshire College to launch Destination Renewables, a two-year programme for students aged 16-18.
Claire Gilchrist, Gwynt Glas Project Manager, EDF Renewables UK said:
“I was honoured to pick up the award with Hayley Williams from Pembrokeshire College on behalf of the project team, and of course all of the industry partners involved, without their support, this programme would not be possible.”
In the same week, Gwynt Glas was also a finalist in the Wales STEM Awards ceremony held in Cardiff. The Wales STEM Awards shines a spotlight on businesses creating an impact on the Welsh economy, those addressing the STEM diversity gap and skills shortage, and those inspiring and raising aspirations of the next generation.
Destination Renewables is underpinned by the Skills and Talent programme of the Swansea Bay City Deal, jointly funded by the Welsh and UK Governments, alongside private sector investment.
Commenting on the awards, Jane Lewis, Regional Partnership Manager for the Regional Skills and Learning Partnership said:
“This is fantastic news, the support from DP Energy and EDF Renewables into this programme will enable so many young people from Pembrokeshire to start their journey into a career pathway in the industries of the future. We look forward to working with DP Energy and EDF Renewables on other projects in our region!”
Dr Barry Walters, Principal at Pembrokeshire College said:
“Pembrokeshire College is delighted to be part of the award winning Destination Renewables partnership and the unique curriculum delivery model supported by EDF Renewables and DP Energy. Destination Renewables provides valuable opportunities for our learners to meet with industry experts and we are very grateful to all the employers who deliver on this nationally recognised programme.”
In addition to the lead partners, the young adults will learn from a range of renewable sector leaders; Milford Haven Port Authority, Marine Energy Wales, Regen, MEECE, The Crown Estate, Celtic Sea Power, Swansea University, Energy Kingdom, Mainstay Marine, Bombora, Marine Space, Eversheds Sutherland, Insite Technical Services, Williams Shipping, Marine Power Systems, 3DW and Cadno Communications, Pembroke Port, Pembrokeshire County Council, DST Innovation. This collaboration with industry will help to bridge the skills gap and showcase the diverse range of careers within the sector, all the while supporting net zero targets and maximising regional benefits.
Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum will support the renewables industry in the delivery of this private sector and education partnership to manage high-quality industry content standards and ensure a positive learner journey.