More than 70% of ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) students from Scotland’s only ROV and diver training centre have secured relevant industry jobs, according to new market research released 16th July 2009. The Underwater Centre, based in Fort William (UK), surveyed 75 of its previous students in a bid to track their career progression and gain a comprehensive overview of the commercial success of its ROV pilot training courses. Results from the survey suggest that 71% of students who have undertaken an ROV course at The Underwater Centre since 2006 are now in employment, with the average taking only three months to find a post. Findings also indicated that not only were students successful in finding relevant jobs, the average annual salary of those in employment was GBP42,750. In line with this, 92% of the 75 students surveyed felt that training at The Underwater Centre made them more employable. These latest figures reflect the growing demand for the Centre’s ROV courses – last year saw a 71% increase in the uptake of ROV courses, compared to 2007.  With energy business analysts Douglas-Westwood forecasting that the deep water oil and gas sector will spend GBP12 billion between 2009 and 2013, the demand for trained and skilled ROV personnel looks set to continue. In response to increasing industry demand and a desire to develop and deliver new courses, The Underwater Centre hsa invested in new operational cabins, an ROV workshop and additional training modules such as manipulator operation and fibre optics. The Centre’s location offers unique, industry relevant conditions for ROV training. Based on the shores of Loch Linnhe, which in parts is deeper than the North Sea, the site is sheltered by the heights of Ben Nevis, meaning it is accessible for training all year round.  Using the industry-standard ROV, the Seaeye Falcons, the Premium ROV Course involves students being trained in flying, pipeline inspection, NDT investigation and seabed searching.www.theunderwatercentre.co.uk/

YoungAds

Recent articles / projects