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12 March 2025
Discover how Atlas Professionals' Greenhands Offshore initiative, in collaboration with 3T, is helping to solve the critical shortage of qualified professionals in offshore markets worldwide. Senior 3T employees Chris Bews and Dave Newbigging share their insights into the success of the initiative, its unique approach to upskilling candidates, and its potential for international expansion - offering exciting and vital career opportunities in the energy sector.
A Strong Partnership with 3T Training Services
Atlas Professionals has a long-standing partnership with 3T Training Services, which provides discounted rates for Greenhands. We spoke with Chris Bews and Dave Newbigging to learn more about their roles at 3T and their involvement in Greenhands Offshore initiative.
Chris Bews: I am the Senior Solutions Manager at 3T, and I’ve been with the company for almost 14 years. At 3T, we see ourselves as more than just a service provider; we are a true partner to Atlas. A key part of that partnership is our involvement in training for Greenhands Offshore.
Dave Newbigging: I’m the Senior Account Manager for Managed Services at 3T. I’ve worked in the energy industry for nearly 18 years, primarily in service roles across fabrication, maintenance, construction, drilling fluids, and solutions management.
Bridging the Offshore Skills Gap
Chris: Whether someone is transitioning from the armed forces, manufacturing, or construction, many individuals aspire to join the energy sector but don’t know where to start. Atlas provides a platform that guides them through this transition by offering clear, consistent information and highlighting the necessary training and qualifications.
I’ve seen many success stories of individuals who initially doubted their credentials or experience. Some candidates may not have had the best start in their careers, but through Atlas, they’ve been given opportunities with drilling contractors and renewables operators, setting them on a successful and fulfilling path.
Dave: I completely agree. Greenhands Offshore initiative is an incredible success story, and now Atlas is taking it even further - expanding beyond the UK to international markets. The programme has already helped 730 individuals secure roles in the energy industry, which is a phenomenal achievement.
Real Success Stories
As a training organisation, we help individuals bridge skill gaps and prepare for offshore roles. Many candidates come to us with little understanding of what they need to succeed. By working closely with Atlas, we ensure they receive the right guidance and training.
When people approach us for training courses, we often direct them to Greenhands Offshore initiative to ensure they are on the right track. The collaboration between Atlas and 3T has been incredibly successful in preparing candidates for offshore careers.
The Armed Forces and the Energy Sector
The energy sector is facing a skills shortage, which will likely intensify as the industry transitions further into renewable energy. To address this, extensive cross-skilling and upskilling are essential. Former armed forces personnel are particularly well-suited for roles in the sector due to their qualifications, adaptability, and experience working in challenging environments.
Many energy companies actively seek to hire ex-military personnel. At 3T, we believe in giving back to these individuals by providing top-tier training and ensuring their skills are recognised and valued.
What Sets Greenhands Offshore Apart?
As a business, we provide training that prepares individuals for offshore environments. For example, in the drilling sector - a highly hazardous field - candidates need a strong understanding of safety protocols and potential risks before heading offshore.
We have invested heavily in technology to ensure our training remains at the forefront of the industry. Greenhands Offshore boasts an impressive success rate, with many participants securing roles through Atlas. We are now looking to expand the programme to mainland Europe and beyond to meet the growing demand for skilled workers.
Expanding to Meet Global Offshore Market Needs
The energy sector is global, with high demand for skilled workers across the US, Europe, and the UK. Attracting new talent to oil and gas remains challenging due to concerns about long-term career stability. However, many individuals already possess relevant skills - they just need the right training to bridge the gaps.
For example, in Lithuania, people often have a broad understanding of the energy industry but lack awareness of specific roles they may qualify for with minimal cross-training. Our role is to provide the necessary certifications and ensure candidates receive the support they need to transition successfully.
As Atlas continues to expand Greenhands Offshore into renewables, cross-skilling will be a major focus. Many skills from traditional oil and gas roles transfer well into wind and hydrogen energy. Through our collaboration with Atlas, we help individuals see the commercial value in their training investments.
Why Greenhands Offshore is Essential for Offshore Careers
Chris: If you’re serious about an offshore career, Greenhands Offshore initiative is the best place to start. However, it’s important to do your research - many people express interest in offshore work without fully understanding what it entails. Offshore is a location, not a job title. Once you gain experience as a Roustabout, there are numerous career paths available, including drilling, catering, and engineering.
I’ve attended Greenhands Offshore multiple times and contributed personally. If 30 people start, by the end, 29 are still eager to pursue an offshore career. That speaks volumes about the quality and effectiveness of the training.
The Atlas Team has an incredible success rate in placing candidates in offshore roles. If you’re ready to invest in your future, put your trust in Greenhands Offshore - it will set you on the right path.
