Although we’re proud of our nationwide name and reputation for service excellence there’s no point hiding our joy when our work is called on in our home area. As we are certain would be true of all businesses, it is wonderful when our work delivers a tangible benefit to both our native North East community and to society as a whole.

It’s for the above reason that we were honoured to be involved in the STEM Building at Middlesbrough College. We were tasked with the fabrication and installation of the fully functional oil rig platform which is integral to the training being provided at this centre.

STEM, the Middlesbrough College centre for science, technology, engineering and mathematics, has been created to provide training which is as realistic as possible. In this respect one of the early decisions made in respect of the design and layout of the building was to include a fully functional – if not operational – oil rig platform. The reason for this was to make sure students were as prepared as possible for the tasks they will face in their chosen careers.

Of the many factors which led to this decision two were considered a priority. The first is perhaps the most obvious – as much practical experience as possible is vital for those going to work on oil rigs, as it has them prepared for the challenging conditions they will face.

It is, however, also the case that this approach will help the looming – and well documented – skills shortage. By using the oil rig platforms as an integral part of training it is anticipated that acceleration will be achieved in getting much needed skilled workers into the industry.

In addition to the oil rig we were also called on to fabricate and install a structural steelwork platform. The principles behind this were similar to those found with the former structure. The focus of use for the structural steelwork platform is to teach dismantling and re-erection, ensuring that robust, world class standards are met. We’re proud to have been selected to bring these qualities – and more – to the STEM centre.

If you’ll excuse our slight play on words, we’re proud of how our platforms will provide an outstanding foundation for education for many years to come. We look forward to being involved in further projects like the STEM centre, and we’re certainly looking forward to welcoming those who graduate through it to our industry.