Recruitment for OGTAP energy apprenticeship scheme launches
Published: 08 February, 2023
OPITO, the global safety and skills organisation, has announced it has launched the 2023 recruitment campaign for its highly successful OGTAP apprenticeship scheme. It is now inviting applications to join this year’s intake and begin a future energy career.
Recognised as a leader in the industry, the four-year OGTAP programme has an employment retention rate post completion of over 95%.
The OGTAP scheme trains the next generation of skilled and competent technicians for both the offshore oil and gas industry and the wider offshore energy industry. It is managed by OPITO and the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) on behalf of industry operators and major contractors including bp, Equinor, TotalEnergies, Wood, Petrofac and Bilfinger.
Since its launch in 1999, the programme has trained more than 2,000 apprentices in four key disciplines: instrument and control, electrical maintenance, mechanical maintenance, and process operations.
Ewen Hay, director of products, services and apprenticeships at OPITO, said:
“We are excited to announce that applications are open for this year’s intake of OGTAP apprentices. This highly sought-after scheme enables apprentices to earn while they learn, work alongside some of the energy sector’s best employers, and gain globally recognised qualifications in a vital and growing industry to steer their future careers.
“In line with our commitment to diversity in the energy industry, we are keen to encourage people from all backgrounds to participate. While OGTAP has proud roots in the oil and gas industry, its combination of high standards, skills development, and industry experience make it an ideal way to launch a career as part of the future, net zero energy workforce.
“Today’s OGTAP apprentices will play a key role in driving the energy transition and delivering the integrated energy system of tomorrow in wind, carbon capture and green hydrogen.”
Successful applicants to the scheme will spend 21 months at one of several participating colleges across Scotland followed by a two-year placement with a sponsoring energy company. As well as gaining industry specific skills through expert training and mentoring, apprentices are awarded a Level 3 Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ) at SCQF Level 7 in their discipline.
Callum Douglas, electrical technician apprentice at TotalEnergies, said:
“The OGTAP apprenticeship programme has given me a great foundation in my role as a technician which will set me up for success in the rest of my career. My understanding of electrical equipment has vastly improved since college thanks to the on-site experience and the support of my colleagues around me. Everyone takes the time to answer any questions I have and share their knowledge. They really look out for you.
“I’m pleased I chose the apprenticeship route as it provides a great insight into the oil and gas industry, whilst ensuring your skills are transferable to support the energy transition. Don’t hesitate to apply; there are fantastic opportunities ahead if you work hard and throw yourself into it.”
The scheme is now open for applications until 10 March. Successful applicants will start in September.
For more information on the scheme, the opportunities and how to apply, visit https://www.ogtap.co.uk/apply
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