Kick-Start Your Offshore Career: The Greenhand Advantage

10 September 2024

Since its inception in August 2018, the Greenhand Programme has empowered hundreds of individuals to embark on successful offshore careers. Here we explore the programme’s history, highlight its comprehensive training, and share testimonials from those who have benefited from this transformative experience.

History and Purpose of the Greenhand Programme

The Greenhand Programme was initiated by Atlas Professionals in Aberdeen in August 2018, with the primary goal of bridging the skills gap for those interested in going offshore for the first time. Recognising the evolving nature of offshore work and seeing the skills gap currently preventing drilling companies from hiring, Atlas Professionals designed the Greenhand Programme to equip new entrants with the exact training they need to thrive in this industry.

Atlas Professionals Health and Safety Manager, Mark McDonald, says: “We knew we were onto something when a simple LinkedIn message on the Greenhands concept attracted 1700 responses over 48 hours. Our clients had the work - we just needed candidates with the right training.”

One of the most compelling aspects of the programme comes from the first-hand success stories of its graduates. Professionals who have participated in the programme speak highly of the training they received and how well it prepared them for real-world challenges of the offshore world. 

"The training I received through the Greenhand Programme was exceptional. It provided me with the hands-on skills and confidence I needed to succeed in my first offshore role. The support from Atlas Professionals has been incredible throughout my journey." - Charles Bruce, graduate of the Greenhand Programme.

The Comprehensive Training Provided

The Greenhand Programme is renowned for its comprehensive training approach, which covers a wide range of essential skills and knowledge areas. Participants undergo rigorous training sessions that include safety procedures, technical skills, and practical exercises designed to simulate real offshore scenarios.

Read more about Atlas Professionals Greenhand Programme outline, modules, and certification.

At training sessions, attendees will have a one-to-one interview, complete aptitude tests, receive advice on life offshore, and be given safety awareness training by Mark McDonald, the Atlas Professionals Health and Safety manager, who is an experienced offshore safety officer. 

The interactive day includes:

●    A drilling masterclass
●    Lock Out Tag out
●    Lifting operations and control of lifting equipment
●    COSHH awareness
●    Stop Work Authority
●    In the Line of Fire (Red Zone awareness)
●    Prevention of hand and finger injuries
●    Prevention of dropped objects
●    Working at height
●    Barrier management  
●    And lots of background industry information for oil and gas.

The programme also emphasises the importance of safety and teamwork, ensuring that all participants are well-prepared to handle the demands of working on an oil rig and in places like the North Sea.

This training is holistic. Not only does it enhance employability, but it also instils a sense of confidence and preparedness in the participants.

Since its inception in 2018, our Greenhand Programme has supplied over 700 skilled Greenhands to our clients.

How to Apply and Participate in Greenhand Training Days

Applying for the Greenhand Programme is straightforward. Atlas Professionals regularly organises Greenhand Training Days based on industry demand. These days are a crucial opportunity for aspiring offshore professionals to get hands-on experience and connect with industry experts.

To apply for the Greenhand Programme:

1.    Visit the Atlas Professionals events page.
2.    Browse the upcoming Greenhand Training Days.
3.    Submit your CV.
4.    Attend an initial interview to assess your suitability for the programme.

Read more about how to apply for the Greenhand Programme. 

The programme is a chance to kick-start your offshore career. With a robust training curriculum, proven success stories, and a commitment to preparing participants for real-world challenges, the Greenhand Programme stands out as a premier choice for aspiring offshore professionals. 

Mark McDonald says: “To date, we have secured that elusive first trip offshore for over 700 Roustabouts. That’s a 99% success rate (for those who have completed the required training) for the Atlas Greenhand Programme - which we are really proud of. 

To anyone who is thinking of applying, I’d say, check our website for any future greenhand events that may be coming up. If you feel you have the correct attitude to work in an offshore environment, please create an Atlas profile and apply via the links that will be featured on the Greenhand landing page. "

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