Cable company JDR is collaborating with Tufts University in Medford, Massachusetts, on a programme centred on offshore wind power system design.
The course will be taught at the university’s School of Engineering.
The partners have also established an undergraduate engineering cooperative education office for students who are in their junior and senior year and wish to pursue a career in the offshore wind industry.
JDR, which is part of TFKable, will contribute expertise in maritime energy and high voltage subsea power system design to help Tufts develop the programme for professional engineers.
The new office will connect student engineers at Tufts with mentors and work experience at JDR project sites around the world, including internships at JDR UK and TFKable’s Polish factories.
JDR director for the Americas David Nemetz said: “Our cooperation is a great opportunity to increase the potential of the region by preparing appropriate, highly qualified staff – ie, managers, designers, technologists – who will enter the market not only with a large scope of theoretical knowledge, but also practical knowledge, resulting from the experience of working with our team at JDR and TFKable.
“It is also worth adding that JDR already has experience in cooperation in this type of educational projects.
“Our UK company has been successfully leading STEM engagement programs for young people for several years. We see this as a great opportunity to develop the entire US offshore wind market.”
Tufts University School of Engineering dean Jianmin Qu said: “One of our school’s top priorities is preparing our students to help lead industry in the harvesting of energy from offshore wind and supporting the US strategic initiative to produce more energy using renewable, environmentally friendly resources.
“With opportunities to learn from experts and to gain hands-on experience, our graduates will be well-positioned in this growing global industry.”