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Pupils visit Aberdeen training facilities as part of OPITO Industry Awareness Week

Sparrows Group has provided school pupils considering a career in the oil and gas industry a taster of what they can expect as part of OPITO’s Industry Awareness Week.

Senior pupils from schools across the North-east of Scotland visited our Tyrebagger facility on Thursday, June 23, to experience crane training operations and meet members of staff.

The initiative aims to help broaden the career horizons of the next generation through a planned timetable of activities at a variety of companies operating across the industry.

During their visit the group were shown around the training facilities, given the chance to operate a crane training simulator and discuss any ideas or queries with experienced members of staff.

Susan Fraser, head of training and competence at Sparrows Group, said “The next generation are crucial to the longevity of the oil and gas industry and it is imperative that we continue to encourage them and create paths into the sector during the current low oil price environment.

“Events such as Industry Awareness Week are fantastic opportunities both for the youngsters and companies to connect. We hope that providing an idea of what roles are available and what jobs involve will highlight what an exciting and rewarding career can be on offer.”

OPITO UK managing director John McDonald said: “The industry as a whole has been experiencing many difficulties as it adjusts to the lower oil barrel price and redundancies have been widely reported. However, the North Sea basin still has significant recoverable hydrocarbons. It is vital that we create a skilled and competent workforce for the future, ensuring that our industry operates effectively and efficiently and remains a major contributor to both UK and Scottish economies.

“Inspiring the next generation remains high on the agenda for OPITO, Government and the industry and to have the support of these organisations at such a crucial time is very encouraging."

Other companies that participated in Industry Awareness this year included ABB, Aker Solutions, BP, Conoco Philips, Proserv, Statoil, Stork and TOTAL.

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