Energy Voice

Demand from school leavers for careers in engineering has shot up, according to Aberdeen’s two universities.

Both Robert Gordon University (RGU) and Aberdeen University saw increases in applications for engineering courses this year.

RGU alone said it had more than six applications for each of the 176 places on its BEng and MEng engineering degrees.

North-east apprentices picked up awards at Score Group in Peterhead after scoring top marks in a national mechanical engineering competition.

The trainees, from Aberdeen, the Highlands and Peterhead, took part in the annual Scottish IMechE (Institution of Mechanical Engineers) Engineering Craft Competition for first-year apprentices.

Each had to be under 19 years old and be attending SEMTA-approved training centres in Scotland and in employment.

Aberdeen’s Energy Institute Young Professional Network (EIYPN) is hosting its inaugural black tie event next month.

The EIYPN, set up to provide development, networking and educational opportunities for young professionals in the energy industry in the north east, is holding a dinner and ceilidh.

Hugh Rees, chairman of the Energy Institute Aberdeen, Highlands and Islands branch said: “These young people are the bright future of our energy business and it is exciting to witness the enthusiasm and professionalism with which they approach their activities.