You’re hired! Oil and gas apprentice of year crowned

A former trainee car mechanic has been crowned 2016’s oil and gas apprentice of the year. Lewis Nichols, a 21 year old from Norwich, received the Oil and Gas Apprentice Programme […]

A former trainee car mechanic has been crowned 2016’s oil and gas apprentice of the year.

Lewis Nichols, a 21 year old from Norwich, received the Oil and Gas Apprentice Programme (OGTAP) award for displaying outstanding ability and attitude.

He decided to study as a mechanical maintenance apprentice at North East College Scotland after recognising the long term, international career opportunities it could offer. He is now due to start a two year work placement in spring.

The award was presented by oil and gas industry skills organisation OPITO.

Mr Nichols said: “Joining the industry just as the oil price fell and the impact of the downturn started to be felt didn’t put me off in the slightest.

” I’m confident that by the time I complete the on-the-job training phase of the apprenticeship programme the industry will be more balanced and will have a sustainable future for those with the right skills and experience.”

OGTAP has brought around 1,500 young people into the oil and gas industry since 1999 and is backed by 19 oil and gas operators and major contractors.

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