The joint venture team developing Scottish offshore wind farm project Inch Cape has supplied two virtual welding kits to Edinburgh College.
These have been provided to address fabrication and welding skills shortages as part of an ongoing STEM education partnership supporting future workforce development.
The virtual kits will help develop hands-on skills in a sustainable way and have been match-funded by the college which has now enhanced its welding facilities.
Edinburgh College’s Head of School Ron Eldridge said: “The virtual welding technology allows students of all ages to practise welding techniques in a safe and controlled environment, complementing the new equipment at Midlothian Campus.
“Our collaboration with Inch Cape is both addressing specific skills shortages and providing clear pathways for students into employment, modern apprenticeships or further engineering courses.”
Inch Cape’s package of support has also enabled the delivery of a Level 5 Offshore Wind Renewable Energy Unit comprising STEM theory and simulations using a scaled Vestas wind turbine model so students can explore different ways of securing turbines to the seabed.
By bringing in robotics experts from the Heriot-Watt National Robotarium, this initiative will help pave the way for the creation of new robotics provision at the college.
The partnering activity also includes the ongoing creation of an interactive immersive package for P7 and S1 students who will be able to virtually plan and build an offshore wind farm, with care for the people and environment it will impact.
Inch Cape’s Stakeholder and Communications Manager Sue Vincent said: “Our partnership with Edinburgh College covers a raft of hands-on, innovative STEM-based learning opportunities targeted at different age groups.
“By providing varied educational insights and experiences, we aim to inspire students to see offshore wind as an exciting future career choice.”
Inch Cape will shortly begin its offshore construction with the project set to be fully operational in 2027.
The project is owned by Inch Cape Offshore Wind Limited, a 50/50 equal joint venture between ESB and Red Rock Renewables.