Recruitment for this year’s Oil and Gas Technical Apprenticeship Programme (OGTAP) cohort is now open for applications.

The OGTAP scheme, led by OPITO, the global skills and safety organisation, and the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB), on behalf of oil and gas industry operators and major contractors, was launched in 1999 to create a sustainable pipeline of skilled and competent technicians.

Since then, more than 2,000 people have completed the four-year apprenticeship across a number of disciplines from instrument and control, electrical maintenance mechanical maintenance and process operations. 

Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, there are currently more than 340 apprentices completing their training through a combination of theoretical, college-based learning and practical learning on worksites and offshore. 

Jill Glennie, OPITO Director of External Affairs and Apprenticeships, said:
“Apprenticeships are crucial to our sector’s future success. To drive the economic recovery, it is more critical than ever to provide training and development opportunities to secure the next generation workforce. 

“It’s a time of tremendous change and transformation in the energy industry, and an exciting time for apprentices embarking on their career journey. As ever, the continued support and commitment of our partners – OGTAP sponsor companies and colleges – is vital and much appreciated. 

“Governments recognise the importance of apprenticeships as a vocational method of training, and the combination of theoretical knowledge with practical, ‘on the job’ learning, in creating the skills required for the future.”

OPITO’s 2019 Workforce Dynamics report highlighted the need to continue to upskill and reskill the existing workforce, as well as attract new people to the industry. The report also highlighted that there will be an estimated 4,500 completely new roles that don’t currently exist, such as data science, automation and new materials. 

“While it’s impossible to predict the future, what is clear from our own research is that innovation and the transition to a net zero future is going to re-shape the energy sector, creating exciting new roles and opportunities across the industry,” Ms. Glennie continued. 

“Our apprenticeship programmes are continually evolving to reflect changing industry dynamics and anticipate the workforce skills and capability companies need for the future.” 

• Applications for the 2021 OGTAP apprenticeship scheme can be made here.
• The application process is open until Tuesday 30 March 2021.
• In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, interviews will take place virtually.

KeyFacts Energy Industry Directory: OPITO