Energy producer Drax has launched a programme to give young people experience of working on its Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS) project at its Selby power station.
Drax has partnered with careers platform Springpod to offer Project Sprint which gives students aged 14-19 a virtual experience of working as a process engineer as part of the BECCS project which could help to create 10,000 jobs and is contingent on Government backing. The firm is also offering employees at the Selby plant the opportunity to boost their carbon capture and storage knowledge via a bootcamp delivered in partnership with Selby College. So far 50 engineers have completed the course.
Project Sprint is an online learning simulation created by Drax's Early Careers Development team and Capital Projects engineering experts. Through a series of videos and a work booklet they will learn about the process of capturing carbon emissions, identifying problems and finding solutions.
Bruce Heppenstall, plant director at Drax Power Station said: "Drax’s commitment to developing the next generation of engineers is integral to our strategy for a sustainable future and both Project Springpod and our CCS Skills Bootcamp will give young people the pathway to play a part in this future. BECCS will bring thousands of highly skilled, well-paid jobs to the local region and it is imperative that we equip young people with the skills to design and implement not only BECCS at Drax Power Station, but the CCS projects of the future, which will be critical in the fight against climate change.”
Max Apedaile, a student from Selby College who participated in the programme, said: “I really enjoyed taking part in the Process Engineer virtual work experience. It was interesting learning about the system Drax uses for carbon capture. This is going to be a huge part of the future of engineering, and it’s important for young people like me to get involved and understand how it works."
Sam Hyams, co-founder and CEO of Springpod, said: “Carbon capture is emerging as one of the most promising technologies in dealing with climate change. It’s critical that the next generation of young people entering the industry are equipped with the right skills. Drax’s expertise in this area provides young people with unparalleled insight and gives them the chance to test their hard skills and learn from real-world feedback.”
Adrian Haigh, engineering lecturer at Selby College, added: "The course was well put together and challenging, exactly what our students need to become competent engineers of the future. The collaboration between Drax and Selby College bridges the gap between industry needs and education, providing students with valuable insight into the technologies of today and tomorrow."
