East Coast Training Academy, part of East Coast College, welcomed delegates from Vietnam Electricity (EVN) on Thursday 16th March to their Energy Skills Centre, to help inspire the development of the Vietnamese offshore wind industry.
Tobey Thieu from the British Embassy in Vietnam was co-leading the group and said “it’s a valuable experience as such knowledge will be practical once Vietnam’s offshore wind industry starts to develop.”
The visit consisted of demonstrations from some of the key industries and training offered at the Academy: working at height, the maritime bridge simulator, emergency response room and even a sneak peek of a rescue at sea exercise; hosted in the only 5 metre deep Environmental Training Tank in East Anglia that simulates a storm and sea conditions at day or night time.
The event was concluded with talks from two influential companies when it comes to growing our offshore wind industry; Leo Hambro from Tidal Transit and Susan Falch-Lovesey from Equinor, speaking with our own Rachel Bunn, Director of Commercial at East Coast College, about the energy skills gap we have in the UK and how we plan to tackle this. Which starts with our very own Apprenticeship opportunities offered at East Coast College, along with further schemes in development to up-skill the current workforce in the offshore wind industry.
During his presentation, Mr Hambro spoke about how “it’s a sector with huge growth potential” and that his company is leading the push to decarbonize vessels. In 2025 they plan to deliver a fully electric boat that they have developed with the help of government funding and grants.
Speaking on behalf of the College, Ms Bunn said: “It was great to showcase the work of East Coast College and the region during this exciting visit from the Vietnamese.”
East Coast Training Academy have many more visits such as this planned for the future and look forward to playing their part in the advancement of the offshore wind industry. To find out more about the training opportunities they offer – visit the East Coast Training Academy website.