‘A Green Way To Work’ Conference Held in Hull, UK

Businesses were given a chance to learn how to create a workforce fit for Hull’s renewable energy ambitions at A Green Way To Work.

The conference, staged at Hull College, highlighted the funding and opportunities available to local companies to ensure their employees have the right skills for the renewables industry.

The event was co-organised by the college, Renewables Network and Footprint Renewables.

Delegates at A Green Way To Work heard how now is the time for local firms to gear up for the potential contracts being generated by the industry, particularly in relation to offshore marine renewables and projects such as Green Port Hull.

This could see a Siemens wind turbine assembly plant, creating hundreds of direct and indirect jobs, built at the city’s docks.

However, companies at the conference were also warned their locality was not enough on its own to win work – they have to invest in the right skills to succeed.

Dr Elaine McMahon, chief executive and principal of Hull College Group, said the opportunities are here across the Humber, largely because of the region’s favourable geographical location, but that doesn’t mean firms will automatically gain business.

She said: “Businesses could lose out to international companies by not investing in the right skills.

“Businesses need to have a workforce ready to make the most of the opportunities when they arise.

“We know what we need to do, let’s get on with it.”

Hull College has more than 150 courses related to renewables to equip students for more than 100 different careers within the sector and Dr McMahon said: “We must collaborate. We need to make sure this region, that is so desperate for these thrilling, excellent opportunities, doesn’t miss out.”

Sam Pick, director of the Renewables Network, said developing the right skills is crucial for this region.

He said: “It is a large mistake if businesses in Hull think the proposed investment will automatically link to new jobs. We have to work for it.

“The opportunities are here now, businesses need to be rolling with it now.”

At the conference, information was provided about the Regional Growth Fund (RGF), which is one of the funding pots available to businesses to help train apprentices.

According to Hull City Council’s economic inclusion manager Bob Ferraby, £13 million of the £25 million RGF fund secured is being spent on preparing workers for the green sector.

Andrew Morton, account director of Footprint Renewables, said: “Developing the right skills is one of the most crucial elements of the Humber’s growing bid to be a true powerhouse for renewable energy.

“A Green Way To Work perfectly highlighted the funding and support to ensure this happens – it’s now up to businesses, training providers and others to come together and take advantage.”

The conference, which included a chance for local businesses to network, was opened by Hull East MP Karl Turner, whose constituency covers the Green Port Hull site.

He highlighted the importance of gaining jobs to decrease unemployment in the city.

Mr Turner said: “The green industry has a large potential for growth in our region. It is essential we explore every opportunity to ensure local people have the skills future employers look for.” 

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Press release, October 5, 2012; Image: footprintrenewables