A new and expanded programme aimed at inspiring young people, developing skills and connecting emerging talent with opportunities in the offshore energy industry will debut at SPE Offshore Europe 2025 (OE25).
For the first time, the Skills & Education Programme will run across all four days of the free-to-attend conference and exhibition from 2-5 September 2025 at P&J Live, Aberdeen.
Around 300 school pupils, alongside students and individuals seeking to upskill, change careers or return to the workplace, are expected to get involved in the programme which is supported by bp, OPITO and bp Aberdeen Hydrogen Energy Limited – the joint venture between bp and Aberdeen City Council developing the Aberdeen Hydrogen Hub
The SPE Offshore Europe organising team, RX and SPE, has developed the programme to inspire and showcase the exciting career opportunities available within the offshore energy sector.
Education specialists TechFest and Developing the Young Workforce North East (DWYNE), with OPITO as the education delivery team, are leading the development of the hosted schools programme to ensure it aligns closely with the curriculum and provides a high-quality learning experience.
An expanded Future Talent Hub will be sponsored by technology leaders including ABB and SLB and will feature a variety of interactive activities designed to immerse students in hands-on experiences, create excitement and inspire future careers in the offshore energy sector.
The Education and Skills Programme will include:
STEM Activity Zone: a space for interactive challenges and demonstrations to engage and inspire school groups and young visitors through hands-on STEM experiences
Future Talent Hub and Theatre: industry leaders will discuss topics including career pathways, skills transfer and recruitment in the evolving energy landscape
Guided Schools Tours: structured tours including visits to themed hubs across the exhibition floor and selected exhibition stands, offering practical insights and hands-on experiences
Doris Reiter, senior vice president, bp North Sea
Doris Reiter, senior vice president, bp North Sea, said, “The energy industry is abundant with opportunity, and it will take the brightest minds and the broadest thinking to unlock its future. That’s why bp is supporting the education offering at Offshore Europe. Its expanded focus resonates with our commitment to inspiring and developing the talent and skills that will power the industry in the decades to come.
“We hope the engagements the young people have at the event will ignite sparks of curiosity that develop the next generation for our dynamic industry.”
Stephen Marcos Jones, chief executive officer at OPITO
Stephen Marcos Jones, chief executive officer at OPITO, said: “We are proud to champion the expanded Skills and Education Programme at SPE Offshore Europe 2025. This is more than an event - it’s a vital opportunity to open young eyes to the future of energy. By connecting students with real-world experiences and the technologies transforming our sector, we’re not just informing - we’re inspiring.
“Through My Energy Future powered by OPITO, we are actively shaping a talent pipeline that reflects the diversity, innovation, and ambition required for a net-zero future. By working in close partnership with educators and industry, we aim to spark curiosity, nurture confidence, and help every young person see a future for themselves in this dynamic and essential sector.”
Dr Oliver Taylor, chief executive for bp Aberdeen Hydrogen Energy Limited, said: “Captivating young minds is fundamental to building a vibrant future workforce. We’re proud to sponsor Offshore Europe’s education programme and get involved in the brilliant programme of events that I’m sure will help light the path for exciting careers across the energy industry.”
SPE Offshore Europe is organised by The Offshore Europe Partnership, a joint venture between RX (Reed Exhibitions) and the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE). It is free to attend and registration is now open.