The Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) has been awarded Scottish Government funding to expand training that will support the continued development of Scotland's offshore wind sector.

The industry-led skills body secured £372,842 through the Offshore Wind Skills Programme (OWSP) to create clear, employer-led routes for new entrants, career changers, military leavers and oil and gas workers looking to transition. Funding was also awarded to the University of the Highlands and Islands and North East Scotland College (NESCol).

Launched by the Scottish Government in 2026, the OWSP was allocated £3.85 million to help build the skilled workforce required as the sector grows. The ECITB is among the first three projects to receive a share of almost £1.7 million.

The ECITB will bring together its Work Ready initiative, its forthcoming Wind Turbine Technician Cross Skill Programme and its Scholarship pathway, aligned to five priority occupations essential to offshore wind:

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- Wind turbine technicians

- Installation and maintenance electricians

- Engineering technicians

- Metal working production and maintenance fitters

- Electrical engineers

ECITB Chief Executive Andrew Hockey said: "I was delighted to see this announcement from the Scottish Government. This funding will enable the ECITB to be able to deploy and build on our efforts in developing the skills needed for the offshore wind industry, fully in line with our 2026-2030 strategy to lead industry learning."

According to the ECITB, the programmes directly address growing skills shortages across offshore wind and the wider energy transition and will:

- Support Scotland's net zero ambitions and onshore/offshore wind growth.

- Help build a safe, competent, job-ready workforce.

- Deliver strong social value, including increased participation from under-represented groups.

- Unlock significant co-investment, maximising value for money and a larger return of levy funds to employers.

In announcing the funding, Scottish Government Energy Minister Stephen Gethins MSP said: "I am determined to make the most of Scotland's remarkable energy potential, with industry reports estimating offshore wind could support up to 49,000 jobs in Scotland. That is why it is at the centre of both our energy and economic ambitions.

"The Scottish Government is doing everything within our power to help seize this exciting opportunity, and that starts by focusing on skills to ensure communities benefit directly from employment opportunities and businesses have the skilled workforce they need to grow. Supporting these three projects with almost £1.7 million is central to that, and there will be more to come."