The North of England’s gas distributer, Northern Gas Networks (NGN), is developing the next generation of talent at a vital time for the energy sector as it gets ready to transition to net zero.
With climate change one of the biggest issues to face future generations, an apprenticeship is one way to be at the heart of the solution to the problem and to help shape the future of energy.
Today NGN employs over 80 apprentices throughout the North East, Yorkshire and northern Cumbria and aims to have 100 apprentices working for the organisation as part of its 2,000 strong team by 2026.
First launched in 2005, NGN’s apprentice programme has expanded over the years to offer academic training and on-the-job learning for both operational and back-office roles, with opportunities spanning engineering as well as business administration, HR, communications, operational training, gas connections and finance roles.
Last year NGN introduced Degree Apprenticeships, with four employees currently benefiting from a paid-for degree while getting valuable industry experience and at the same time earning a salary.
As well as educating and upskilling people in readiness for future roles in the energy sector, the gas distributer is also committed to seeking people from diverse backgrounds who haven’t necessarily considered a career in the energy industry before.
Mark Horsley, CEO at Northern Gas Networks said:
“As an anchor company embedded in the region that we serve, we have a responsibility to make a positive difference to the lives of people living and working in the North of England. That includes improving access to good employment opportunities and supporting people to develop sustainable skills to help them prosper and thrive in their careers and life.
“It’s an exciting time in our industry as we get our network ready to support the transition to net zero, investing in future talent is essential to meet the challenges ahead. Recruiting from a broad talent base and reaching out to people from wide ranging backgrounds is vital to ensure that we have the right people in the roles for the future.”
As part of NGN’s commitment to breaking down traditional barriers to employment and making opportunities accessible for all, the company has in some cases adjusted entry level criteria so that apprenticeships are an option for those who don’t already have specific academic qualifications such as English and Maths GCSE, supporting these individuals to gain these qualifications as part of their training.
Chris Adair, Training and Apprenticeship Manager at Northern Gas Networks said:
“As a business we actively pursue initiatives that improve access to opportunities and fair employment and we seek to recruit apprentices from a variety of backgrounds, especially socially deprived areas where younger people may not always have the knowledge, support or access to different career paths.
“Helping people to understand the industry and the varied career options it presents for the future workforce is vital to reaching the UK’s climate targets and apprenticeships are a great way of doing that. At NGN we’re committed to offering more than just a foot in the door, but a sustainable path to a long term, rewarding career in the energy sector.”
NGN’s apprenticeship scheme is so successful that many colleagues who joined the business as apprentices have pursued successful careers at NGN and now hold senior leadership roles in the organisation.
Mark began his own career at 16 as an apprentice cable jointer with the then North Eastern Electricity Board in York. Upon finishing his four-year apprenticeship, he began work as an electrical craftsman before progressing to senior leadership roles.
To find out more about upcoming opportunities with NGN’s apprenticeship programme and how to apply email ngncareers@northerngas.co.uk
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