Stephen Flynn MSP, the Minister for Economy, Tourism and Transport, visited the Montrose Port Skills Academy (MPSA) on Thursday 20 August to meet trainees and underline the pivotal role of skills development in Scotland's growing renewable energy economy.

During the visit, Mr Flynn spoke with students from Dundee & Angus College's Futures in Offshore Wind course who have secured apprenticeships with wind turbine manufacturer Vestas, showcasing how hands-on, industry-aligned learning is opening clear routes into work.

He heard first-hand about the participants' experiences, the expertise they have gained, and how the programme has supported their transition into employment and apprenticeships.

The itinerary also included a tour of Customs House, the future home of a dedicated renewables training facility. The site will host specialist equipment and programmes designed to build the skilled workforce needed to support Scotland's rapidly expanding offshore wind sector.

Economy Secretary Stephen Flynn said: "I was delighted to visit Montrose Port Authority and see the progress of the Skills Academy which will help produce the next cohort of talented workers for the expanding renewable energy sector.

"Meeting students who have already benefitted from the academy demonstrated why it is vital in to invest in the talent of the future. That's why the Scottish Government has pledged £1.25 million through the Tay Cities Industrial Investment Programme to develop the Skills Academy.

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"The collaborative approach between the Scottish Government, Angus Council, Montrose Port Authority and Dundee & Angus College benefits young people with vital training which improves their opportunities in the offshore wind sector."

The academy is intended to reinforce Montrose Port's role as a centre for renewable energy activity, with a particular emphasis on operations and maintenance services for offshore wind farms.

Angus Council Leader, Councillor George Meechan, said: "The Montrose Port Skills Academy is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when local partners work together around a shared ambition for Angus and the wider region.

"It is particularly encouraging to see the success of the first cohort, with students already going on to secure apprenticeships. Their achievements demonstrate the real impact that targeted training and strong links with industry can have in opening up exciting career opportunities.

"The academy will continue to play an important role in supporting the growth of the renewable energy sector at Montrose Port, while helping to drive higher-value employment, attract investment and deliver sustainable economic growth across Angus and the wider Tay region."

Plans for the facility include a dedicated training room and workshop space to support both formal learning and industry-led training across mechanical, electrical and hydraulic disciplines. A flexible layout will allow bespoke programmes for operations and maintenance teams based at the port, helping to futureproof provision and respond to evolving industry needs.

Julie Grace, Vice Principal, Curriculum & Partnerships at Dundee & Angus College, said: "It is fantastic to see the success of our first Futures in Offshore Wind cohort, with six learners now progressing into apprenticeships with Vestas. Their achievement is a powerful example of how industry-informed education and strong partnerships can create genuine pathways into rewarding careers.

"The Montrose Port Skills Academy will build on this success by bringing together education, industry and public sector partners to provide the specialist skills needed for Scotland's growing offshore wind sector. We are proud to be helping create opportunities for local people to develop the skills and experience they need to play a part in Scotland's renewable energy future."

The visit underscores the importance of investing in people and training alongside renewable infrastructure, equipping communities across Scotland to benefit from the jobs and economic opportunities of the transition to a low-carbon economy.

For students preparing to begin their Vestas apprenticeships, that shift is already taking shape — demonstrating how targeted skills programmes, strong industry partnerships and local investment are translating into tangible careers in Scotland's offshore wind sector.