Skills Bootcamps are giving people in the North East the opportunity to retrain and gain the skills needed in high demand sectors, like renewable energy and green construction. Green Skills Bootcamps are attracting new entrants and upskilling existing staff across the sector helping to respond to the region’s journey to net zero. 

Skills bootcamps are fully funded for individuals, meaning that people can retrain for free. Unlike traditional training, Skills Bootcamps can be accessed by individuals who are in work and looking to upskill, or who are unemployed or self-employed. For many self-employed individuals, taking time out of work to upskill and at a cost can be challenging so having the opportunity to access free training through Skills Bootcamps is invaluable.  

David Finley, who took part in a four-week Skills Bootcamp on wind turbine blade repair, gives an insight into his experience.

“I’d worked as a self-employed window cleaner since I left school. I used to work for my grandad during the school holidays and then, when he died, I took over the business. I made a good living out of it for a long time but eventually I wanted to change career.”

“I have a family to look after and I couldn’t afford to take time out to study or learn a trade. So when I heard about the skills bootcamps, and that you could learn the skills to work as a blade repair technician on wind turbines, I jumped at the chance.”

“The Skills bootcamp was absolutely fantastic. We covered sea survival, first aid, the skills you need for the blade repair itself. You learn loads and it gives you the start you need to move into the renewables industry, including Global Wind Organisation accreditation.”

“I’ve just secured a role as a blade repair technician which will be an excellent experience and will help me to move forward in my new career.” 

In the North East, Skills Bootcamps are available in a range of sectors including green construction, renewable energy, and business and education. They’re open to anyone who lives in the North East region and is aged 19 or over. 

Find out about Skills Bootcamps in the North East here.