In an effort to secure new global business for its members and further strengthen Scotland’s credentials as the global leader in skills development for the energy sector, IESTA (International Energy Skills and Training Alliance) is embarking on a series of trade missions.

The alliance, which represents 18 energy sector training and learning providers across Scotland, will participate in three separate trade missions to its identified key target areas, which include Ghana, UAE and Kuwait.

The missions include a five day visit to Ghana in September, a six day trip to UAE on 30 October and a third, four day mission to Kuwait on 6 November.

Gary Boyd, director of operations at the training alliance said: “IESTA’s presence in these international events will provide member organisations with a vital link to new, lucrative markets around the globe. These carefully selected missions will enable us to gain valuable market intelligence and contacts which will lead to new business opportunities for our members.

“Participation in these missions will enable us to fulfil our ambition of becoming the energy sector’s first port of call for training and skills development needs within the energy sector.”

The Alliance’s representatives on these missions will look to identify and capitalize on potential opportunities for its members as they are welcomed by an esteemed array of high profile oil and gas and training organisations. These include meeting with the UKTI and the Maritime University of West Africa, Abu Dhabi Marine Operating Company and the Department of Education in Ghana.

The delegates will also attend training seminars, networking events and dinners where they will meet with speakers, delegates and relevant Government officials.