Expanding Opportunities for Emerging Talent in the Offshore Energy Sector

Strategic Insights -

The SPE Offshore Europe 2025 conference and exhibition will feature an expanded education and skills programme, targeting 300 school pupils, students, and individuals looking to upskill or change careers in the offshore energy industry. The four-day programme, supported by bp, OPITO, and bp Aberdeen Hydrogen Energy Limited, aims to inspire and showcase the exciting career opportunities available in the sector. Education specialists TechFest and Developing the Young Workforce North East (DWYNE), with OPITO as the education delivery team, will lead the development of the programme to ensure it aligns with the curriculum and provides a high-quality learning experience.

Key Takeaways:

  • The SPE Offshore Europe 2025 education and skills programme is a four-day event, running from September 2-5, at P&J Live, Aberdeen.
  • The programme aims to engage around 300 school pupils, students, and individuals seeking to upskill, change careers, or return to the workplace in the offshore energy sector.
  • The programme is supported by bp, OPITO, and bp Aberdeen Hydrogen Energy Limited, and features activities such as a STEM Activity Zone, a Future Talent Hub, and guided schools tours.
  • The exhibition floor will feature themed hubs and selected exhibition stands, offering practical insights and hands-on experiences.
  • Education specialists TechFest and Developing the Young Workforce North East (DWYNE) will work with OPITO as the education delivery team to develop the programme, ensuring it aligns with the curriculum and provides a high-quality learning experience.
  • Industry leaders, including ABB and SLB, will sponsor the Future Talent Hub, featuring interactive activities designed to immerse students in hands-on experiences and inspire future careers in the offshore energy sector.
  • The Education and Skills Programme is led by the SPE Offshore Europe organising team, RX and SPE, in collaboration with housing partners such as TechFest, DWYNE, and OPITO.
  • Doris Reiter, senior vice president at bp North Sea, highlighted the importance of developing talent and skills in the industry, and expressed bp's commitment to supporting the education offering at Offshore Europe.
  • Stephen Marcos Jones, chief executive officer at OPITO, emphasized the programme's focus on inspiring young people and shaping a talent pipeline that reflects the diversity, innovation, and ambition required for a net-zero future.

Statistics:

  • Around 300 school pupils, students, and individuals are expected to participate in the four-day education and skills programme.
  • The programme is supported by bp, OPITO, and bp Aberdeen Hydrogen Energy Limited.
  • Industry leaders from ABB and SLB will sponsor the Future Talent Hub.
  • The Education and Skills Programme will include activities such as a STEM Activity Zone, a Future Talent Hub, and guided schools tours.
  • The programme aims to inspire and showcase the exciting career opportunities available in the offshore energy sector.

Sources:

  • SPE Offshore Europe 2025 conference and exhibition programme
  • bp North Sea's Doris Reiter statement
  • OPITO's Stephen Marcos Jones statement
  • bp Aberdeen Hydrogen Energy Limited's Dr Oliver Taylor statement
  • RX (Reed Exhibitions) and the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) joint statement
  • Insight Energy's partnership announcement with SPE Offshore Europe