- Three UK partners have joined forces to launch a cross-sector program.
- ECITB is offering funding to eligible employers to participate in the pilot program.
- It enables organizations to tap into a new talent pool.
Three UK partners have joined forces to launch a program aimed at supporting professionals in the subsea sector who are returning to work after a career break or seeking to transfer their skills from another industry, reports Offshore Energy.
The initiative is a collaboration between the Global Underwater Hub, the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB), and STEM Returners, to promote equality and diversity within the underwater industry.
Program Overview
The sector-wide STEM Returners program will be implemented across various organizations within the Global Underwater Hub’s membership network. It is designed to cater to professionals who are on a career hiatus or looking to transition their expertise.
ECITB is offering funding to eligible employers to participate in the pilot program, which involves providing selected candidates with a paid 12-week work placement that could potentially lead to a permanent position.
Support and Resources
STEM Returners will offer additional assistance to participants, including career coaching and mentoring, to facilitate their reintegration into the workforce and address any challenges they may face.
The program aims to provide candidates with hands-on experience and guidance during their placement, helping them adjust to the workplace environment while addressing the industry’s skills gap and the need for diversification.
Industry Impact
ECITB Chief Executive Andrew Hockey emphasizes the program’s significance in attracting experienced professionals from diverse backgrounds, thereby enhancing diversity and inclusion within the underwater sector.
The initiative not only offers valuable opportunities for individuals seeking to restart their careers but also enables organizations to tap into a new talent pool.
Job Opportunities
STEM Returners will engage candidates for various roles such as subsea controls engineer and electrical engineer, with placements available across the UK and offshore.
Several organizations, including Subsea7, J+S Subsea, PD&MS, and Verlume, have already committed to the program, highlighting its potential to address the industry’s staffing needs.
Conclusion
Neil Gordon, Chief Executive of Global Underwater Hub, emphasizes the importance of having skilled professionals to support the energy transition efficiently.
Natalie Desty, Founder of STEM Returners, underscores the collaborative effort needed to revamp recruitment practices and assist individuals facing challenges in returning to the sector, ultimately bridging the skills gap in the blue economy.
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Source: offshore energy